London Planetree
Platanus x acerifolia

Description

Platanus acerifolia, or London planetree, a hybrid between the native sycamore and non-native Asian planetree, thrives in full sun and well-drained, humusy soils. It is tolerant of various soil types, light shade, urban pollutants, salt and drought. It is more urban tolerant than American sycamore. Although it was once known for its resistance to sycamore anthracnose, some cultivars, such as 'Columbia' and 'liberty,' show greater resilience to anthracnose. Despite its messy nature, dropping large leaves and seed balls in fall, the London planetree is a hardy, versatile choice for urban landscapes and provides valuable shade.
No items found.

Planting Site and Native Range

Planting Site
Parks, Highway, Residential, Wide Median, Restricted Urban Site

Management Notes

Management Notes
Surface roots may heave pavement Fruit litter may be an issue Frost cracking commonly occurs

Tree Characteristics

Growth Rate
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Width
18 - 24m
Height
21 - 30m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Evergreen

Insects and Diseases

Insects and Diseases
Extensively planted in Ontario due to its ability to be highly tolerant of urban conditions. It has been thought off as the \super\ tree, as there use to be very few pest or diseases that would influence this species. Due to overplanting, pest and diseases are catching up to this species. Issues include cankerstain, anthracnose (depending on cultivar), canker, etc.

Tree Tolerances

Soil Salt Tolerance
Unknown
Salt Spray Tolerance
Unknown
Flooding Tolerance
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Very High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2024 Vineland Research and Innovation Centre