Platanus x acerifolia 'PYRAMIDALIS' fastigate plane tree
size/type
tall tree,tall tree
usual height
15-20m
usual width
3-6m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
4 (down to -34°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Some trees have identity crisis and scientists are trying to trace up their true origin. As these efforts often end up in argumentative sessions we tend to choose the easiest possible explanation. In case of London plane tree we rather believe that it comes from Cenozoic platanus aceroides and was hybridized (platanus occidentalis x platanus orientalis) to this current version with large maple-like leaves.
Description of the plant:
London plane tree is an impressive and large tree which not many gardens can accommodate. However, this variety called Pyramidalis has much narrower crown that will fit most mid-sized gardens and will not overgrow the whole plot with its canopy. All other features remain the same: large leaves that are 20-22 cm across and eye-catching trunk with camouflage-spotted bark that peels off in large flakes.
Fruits are prickly spheres that remain on the tree during the winter. Talking of winter, though a deciduous tree, the stunning bark displays off its beauty mainly in cold months after all leaves have fallen down and the sight of the colourful surface makes the freezing temperatures at least a bit more bearable. It adapts to any soil type, but prefers deep, moist, siliceous soil. It tolerates air-pollution, extreme temperatures, and temporary flooding. Pruning should be done by end winter. Fully hardy to -34°C (USDA 4).
Last update 16-10-2014
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