London planetree (Platanus x acerifolia)

Third place champion London planetree in Grand Junction at Lincoln Park.

Species info:

Leaves: Large, maple-like, usually with five coarsely toothed lobes. Bright to deep lustrous green in summer, turning yellow-brown in fall.

Leaflets: N/A (simple leaves).

Leaf Surface: Smooth, glossy, and slightly leathery.

Bark: Distinctive exfoliating bark revealing mottled patches of olive-green, creamy-yellow, tan, and light brown; highly ornamental in winter.

Flowers: Inconspicuous male and female flowers borne on the same tree.

Fruit: Bristly spherical fruit balls on 2–4 inch stalks, single or in pairs—distinguishing it from American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), which has fruits only in singles. Fruits persist into winter.

Botanical: Platanus x acerifolia

Family: Platanaceae

Mature Height: 80–100+ feet

Canopy Spread: 80–90 feet

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Pyramidal when young, becoming broad and rounded with age

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Fall Color: Yellow-brown

Flower: Inconspicuous

Fruit: Burr-like fruit

Water Use: Moderate to high

Hardiness: Zones 5–8

Soil Preference: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils but highly tolerant of clay, alkaline, and compacted soils

Wildlife Value: Provides habitat and cover for birds and small mammals; fruits persist into winter

Pests/Pathogens: Anthracnose and aphids

Planting Recommendations: Recommended for most sites along the Front Range; vulnerable to exposure and has some concerns for cold hardiness

Information Sources:

• Michael A. Dirr. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press. 2011