We usually notice a plane tree when its crown is strikingly cut. Otherwise the tree gets little attention because neither its flowers nor the fruits are spectacular. There are still interesting facts to report.
What are the characteristics of the plane tree?
The plane tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters high and has a deep root system. It prefers sunny locations and tolerates urban climates. The 3-7-lobed, maple-like leaves, the inconspicuous green and dark red flowers and the spherical nut fruits are characteristic.
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 worldwide speak of eight to ten different species.
The best-known plane tree species in this country are:
- American Sycamore, also called Western Sycamore
- 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 acceptable. The floor, on the other hand, does not have to meet any special requirements. The maple-leaved plane tree is unaffected by polluted city air and also thrives as a plant on the edge of busy streets.
Height, growth and age
Plane trees grow up to 80 cm per year, depending on the species. Most reach a height of over 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, much older specimens still exist, such as a 1000-year-old plane tree in Greece.
Root system
The plane tree is a so-called heartroot. It has a root system that reaches deep into the earth and also has numerous, shallowly spreading roots. The spread of the roots even exceeds the diameter of the crown.
Leaves and flowers
With the exception of one species native to South 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 your hand. Their shape is reminiscent of maple leaves. Color and size are species-specific.
The flowers appear at the same time as the leaves. The plant is monoecious with separate sexes, which is why every 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 stems. Male flowers are green, female flowers are dark red. Pollination occurs by wind.
Note:Leaves and fruits have fine hairs that can cause allergies when inhaled.
Fruits and seeds
Only female flowers produce fruit until October. These are collective nut fruits. Each spherical fruit contains numerous nuts and seeds. The unripe fruit is green, later turns brown and falls apart 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 sycamore tree flakes off. This makes the trunk look mottled.
Propagation
The plane tree can be propagated by seeds. Propagation by cuttings is common in tree nurseries.
Diseases and pests
The plane tree is susceptible to plane tree 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, plane tree web bugs and gall mites.
