plane tree
Noun: 1. A type of large deciduous tree: A "plane tree" is any of several tree species belonging to the genus Platanus. These trees are characterized by distinctive features including thin, pale bark that naturally peels or flakes off in irregular patches, leaves with deep lobes (divisions), and round, spiky seed clusters.
The term "plane tree" is used specifically to refer to trees of this botanical genus. It is a common name, and the trees are often planted in urban areas and along streets due to their tolerance for pollution and their attractive, mottled bark. * The wide avenue was lined with majestic plane trees, their dappled trunks glowing in the afternoon sun. * You can identify a plane tree by looking for its bark, which sheds in large, puzzle-like pieces.
- "London plane" (Platanus × acerifolia): This is a specific, very common hybrid plane tree, widely planted in cities around the world. It is often what people mean when they refer to a "plane tree" in an urban context.
- The London plane is particularly resistant to urban pollution and soil compaction.
- Plane (noun): A common shortened form of "plane tree."
- We sat in the shade of a large plane.
- Sycamore (noun): In North America, some species of plane tree (especially ) are commonly called "sycamore." (Note: This is a different tree from the "sycamore" of the UK, which is a type of maple).
- The American sycamore, or American planetree, is native to eastern and central North America.
- Platanus: The scientific, Latin name for the genus.
- Buttonwood: Another common name for plane trees, referring to their round, button-like seed balls.
- any of several trees of the genus Platanus having thin pale bark that scales off in small plates and lobed leaves and ball-shaped heads of fruits