A plane tree usually catches our eye when its crown is cut conspicuously. Otherwise, the tree gets little attention, because neither its flowers nor its fruits are spectacular. However, there are interesting facts to report.

On average, a plane tree lives about 200 years

Species and distribution area

Plane trees, scientifically Platanus, are mainly native and widespread in the northern hemisphere. They grow in North America as well as in Europe and Asia. The plane tree family has a single genus. Experts around the world speak of eight to ten different species.

The best-known plane tree species in this country are:

  • American plane tree, also called western plane tree
  • Oriental plane tree, also called Oriental plane tree
  • Maple leaf-like plane tree, also called common plane tree

location and soil

Plane trees like sunny locations, partial shade is also accepted. The floor, on the other hand, does not have to meet any special requirements. The maple-leaved plane tree is unimpressed by polluted city air and also thrives well as a border planting on busy roads.

size, growth and age

Depending on the species, plane trees grow up to 80 cm per year. Most reach a height of more than 30 m. The circumference of the crown is hardly smaller. The crown of the oriental plane tree can even reach a diameter of 50 m. The average life expectancy is estimated at 200 to 250 years. However, there are much older specimens, such as a 1000-year-old plane tree in Greece.

root system

The plane tree is a so-called heart root. It has a root system that goes deep into the soil and also has numerous, shallow spreading roots. The spread of the roots even exceeds the crown in diameter.

leaves and flowers

Except for one species native to southern Asia, plane trees are deciduous trees. They sprout new leaves in April or May. Depending on the species, these have 3 to 7 lobes and are about the size of a hand. Their shape is reminiscent of maple leaves. Hue and size are species specific.

The flowers appear at the same time as the leaves. The plant is monoecious, so each tree has both male and female specimens.

Both types of flowers appear in spherical inflorescences about 2-3 cm in diameter. The inflorescences hang on long stalks. Male flowers are green, female flowers are dark red. Pollination is done by wind.

Notice:
Leaves and fruits have fine hairs that can trigger allergies when inhaled.

fruits and seeds

Fruits only develop from female flowers by October. These are among the aggregate fruits. Each spherical fruit contains numerous nutlets with seeds. The unripe fruit is green, later turns brown and decomposes over the winter. The fruits are not poisonous to humans, but are not edible due to their hardness.

bark

Unlike other tree species, where the dead bark develops into a thick bark over time, the plane tree flakes off. This makes the trunk look piebald.

propagation

The plane tree can be propagated by seeds. In nurseries, propagation by cuttings is common.

diseases and pests

The plane tree is susceptible to sycamore wilt, brown rot and massaria disease. Powdery mildew is also observed. All diseases are caused by fungal infections. Common pests include leaf miners, vine mealybugs, sycamore bugs and gall mites.

Category:

Trees