The London Plane (Platanus x hispanica) is a hybrid between the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) and the Oriental plane (Platanus orientalis). The tree was introduced to England from Spain in 1656 and became widely planted in London after the Great Fire of 1666, when it was used as a replacement for destroyed elm trees.
London plane trees are tall with a broad, rounded crown. They have thick, corky bark that sheds in large pieces, revealing a smooth, greenish-white inner bark. The leaves are large and palmate, with 5-9 lobes. The flowers are small and borne in clusters. The fruits are spherical balls containing many seeds embedded in a sticky pulp.
London plane trees are tolerant of pollution and can thrive in urban environments. They are often planted as street trees or in parks and other public spaces.