About

A small, slow-growing tree with flaky, grey/green/cream bark and a tangled, spreading canopy. The leaves develop red-bronze colouration in late summer, turning deep red in autumn. Green, ball-shaped flowers in spring are followed by spiky fruit in autumn.

About the genus

Platanus are vigorous, large deciduous trees of stately appearance, with maple-like foliage and attractively patterned bark

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. See tree cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate from hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lace bugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to plane anthracnose and honey fungus