Are you confused about whether the London Plane Tree is a Sycamore or not? Well, you are not alone!
The London Plane Tree and Sycamore are often mistaken for each other due to their similar appearance. In this article, we will delve deeper into the characteristics of both trees and clear up any confusion.
London Plane Tree
The London Plane Tree (Platanus × acerifolia) is a hybrid of the American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) and Oriental Plane (Platanus orientalis). It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a broad crown that spreads up to 20 meters wide. The bark of the tree is gray-brown in color and flakes off to reveal a creamy white bark underneath.
Characteristics of London Plane Tree
- The leaves are large, lobed, and resemble those of a maple tree.
- The leaves are green in color and turn yellow or brown in autumn.
- The flowers are small and yellow-green in color.
- The fruit is a round ball that hangs on long stalks.
Sycamore
The American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a native tree to North America. It is also deciduous and can grow up to 35 meters tall with a spread of up to 25 meters wide. The bark of the tree is light brown in color and peels off in patches to reveal white or cream-colored bark below.
Characteristics of Sycamore
- The leaves are large, lobed, and resemble those of the London Plane Tree.
- The leaves are green in color and turn yellow-brown in autumn.
- The flowers are small and green in color.
- The fruit is a round ball that hangs on long stalks, just like the London Plane Tree.
So, is the London Plane Tree a Sycamore?
The short answer is no. The London Plane Tree is a hybrid of the American Sycamore and Oriental Plane, while the American Sycamore is a native tree to North America. Although both trees share similar characteristics such as their large lobed leaves, small green flowers, and round fruit, they have distinct differences that set them apart.
How to tell them apart?
One way to distinguish between the two trees is by examining their bark. The bark of the London Plane Tree peels off in smaller patches compared to the American Sycamore’s bark which peels off in larger pieces.
Another way to tell them apart is by observing their growth habits. The London Plane Tree tends to grow more upright while the American Sycamore has a more spreading growth habit.
In conclusion
Although the London Plane Tree and Sycamore share similar characteristics, they are not the same tree. As with any two species that share similarities, it’s important to look for key differences when trying to identify them. By understanding these differences, you can appreciate each tree for its unique qualities and beauty.