The Resilient Giants of the City
London Plane Trees (Platanus x hispanica)
Why the Pacific Northwest Loves London Plane Trees
They are native to Europe, but London Plane trees have made themselves at home here in the Pacific Northwest. These trees love our rainy weather just as much as we do (okay, maybe a little more) and grow like crazy, providing much-needed shade for those of us who melt in the sun. Whether you find them lining city streets, parks, or tucked away in quiet corners, London Plane trees are like nature’s chill-out zone in the middle of all the chaos.
They’re basically the superheroes of city trees—tough enough to handle pollution and not picky about where they grow. In places like Seattle, they’re everywhere, with their massive branches giving us that perfect summer shade and making our streets feel just a little bit more magical.
A Walk Down a Lane of London Planes
I imagine that walking under a row of London Plane trees feels like you’ve stumbled into some sort of enchanted forest (but with less fairies and more squirrels). Their giant trunks and arching branches form a leafy tunnel that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in. Whether it’s sunny or one of those classic misty mornings, the light filtering through the leaves is perfection.
Oh, and in autumn? These trees turn into a golden-brown masterpiece, showing off their colors and giving the evergreens a run for their money. It’s like nature’s own little fashion show.
Why London Plane Trees Are Amazing
Besides looking good, London Plane trees are basically built to survive anything. Their secret weapon? Peeling bark! Yup, they shed their outer layer like it’s an old sweater, getting rid of all the dirt, dust, and pollution they’ve collected. It’s like their own detox spa treatment, helping them stay fresh and healthy.
On a recent nature group outing, the kiddos I volunteer with got super excited about peeling the bark. The lead teacher explained how it helps the tree, and the kids couldn’t wait to “help” by peeling away bits of bark themselves.
This bark-peeling trick also keeps pests and diseases away because the tree’s always shedding any damaged layers. Plus, their deep roots help stop soil erosion, and their giant canopies keep us cool when the sun actually shows up.
How to Spot a London Plane Tree
It’s easy to recognize a London Plane tree—just look for that peeling bark! It flakes off to reveal a smooth, patchy surface underneath that’s kind of like nature’s version of abstract art. They’ve also got big, maple-like leaves and little spiky seed balls hanging from their branches like nature’s ornaments.
Next time you’re wandering around a city park or neighborhood, take a second to look up. You might just be chilling under a London Plane tree, enjoying all the shade and good vibes it’s throwing your way.
These trees are doing important work like cleaning the air and keeping things cool.
Have you spotted any London Planes in your neighborhood? Let me know! 🌳🍂
