Definition

Noun: A very large, fast-growing tree (Platanus × acerifolia), a hybrid species commonly planted as a street tree in urban areas due to its tolerance of pollution and its ability to thrive in confined spaces.

Usage

The term "London plane" refers specifically to this type of tree. It is used as a countable noun. * The city's broad avenues are lined with mature London planes. * A characteristic feature of the London plane is its flaky, camouflage-patterned bark. * They are planting more London plane trees to improve the urban canopy.

Advanced Usage

• Horticultural/Arboricultural Context: The name distinguishes it from other plane tree species, such as the American sycamore () or the Oriental plane (). Its hybrid origin is sometimes indicated in botanical writing.
  • The London plane (Platanus × hispanica) is one of the most common urban trees in the Northern Hemisphere.

Variants and Related Words

• Plane tree: A more general term for trees of the genus . The London plane is a specific type of plane tree.
• Sycamore (British English): In the UK, the London plane is often called a sycamore, although this is botanically distinct from the , which is also called sycamore in Europe.

Synonyms

• Hybrid plane
• Platanus × acerifolia (Botanical name)

Notes on Different Meanings

• This term has a single, specific botanical meaning. It is not to be confused with the city of London or an aircraft ("plane"). The name derives from its extensive historical use in London, England.

Noun

1. very large fast-growing tree much planted as a street tree