Oriental plane Platanus orientalis
ABOUT
The Oriental plane is a deciduous tree known for its large leaves, distinguished bark, and spherical fruit clusters. The leaves of this tree are broad with a roughly palmate shape, usually featuring multiple pointed lobes that radiate outward, resembling the fingers on a hand. The foliage tends to have a luscious green color that transitions to hues of yellow or brown before falling in the autumn. One of the most notable characteristics of the Oriental plane is its bark. The bark has a unique appearance, as it flakes off in irregular patches, revealing a variety of underlying colors that can include creams, greens, grays, or browns. This exfoliating bark provides a rich textural and visual display. The flowers of the Oriental plane are modest and often overlooked, but the fruit is quite distinctive. The fruits are small, dense, and ball-shaped, hanging from the branches on elongated stems. They mature to a spiky structure that persists through the winter and gradually disintegrates to release seeds in the spring. The Oriental plane's branches are sturdy and tend to spread widely, sometimes twisting or turning to give the tree a rugged, picturesque silhouette.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Platanaceae
Synonyms
Oriental Plane, Oriental Planetree, Old World Sycamore, Chinar Tree
Common names
Platanus acerifolia, Platanus cuneata, Platanus digitata, Platanus hybrida, Platanus kerrii, Platanus orientalis var. acerifolia, Platanus orientalis var. cuneata, Platanus orientalis var. digitata, Platanus orientalis var. insularis, Platanus orientalis var. vulcanica, Platanus racemosa, Platanus vulgaris.
ToxicityTo humans
The Oriental plane tree is generally not known for being toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the tree, such as leaves or seeds, typically does not lead to poisoning. However, care should be taken as individual allergies and sensitivities can cause adverse reactions in some people.
To pets
The Oriental plane tree is not considered toxic to pets. There should be no poisoning symptoms if pets ingest parts of this tree. As with humans, individual sensitivities may occur, so observe your pet for any unusual reactions if they consume plant material from the Oriental plane tree.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
80 feet [24 meters]
Spread
70 feet [21 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Shade provider: The Oriental Plane tree is known for its broad crown that offers extensive shade, making it an excellent choice for parks and large gardens.
- Erosion control: With its robust root system, it helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Aesthetic appeal: Its unique, flaking bark and grand stature add visual interest and character to the landscape.
- Urban tolerance: Platanus orientalis is tolerant to urban pollution and compacted soils, making it suitable for city environments.
- Habitat for wildlife: The tree provides habitat and food for various species of birds and insects.
- Drought resistance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal supplemental water in suitable climates.
- Seasonal interest: It offers seasonal interest with its large, lobed leaves turning yellowish in autumn.
- Longevity: Oriental Plane is known for its long life span, providing long-term landscaping benefits.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant effects: The leaves of the Platanus orientalis, commonly known as the Oriental Plane, have been found to contain flavonoids and other compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties.
- Wound healing: There is some evidence to suggest that extracts from the Oriental Plane may have wound healing properties due to the presence of tannins and other phytochemicals that can promote tissue regeneration and have astringent effects.
- Anti-inflammatory activity: Compounds in the Oriental Plane may reduce inflammation, potentially helpful in treating conditions characterized by inflammation.
- Antimicrobial effects: The bark and leaves of the Oriental Plane have been traditionally used for their antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The bark of the Oriental plane can be used as a natural dye. Its rich tannin content provides an earthy color when used in dyeing fabrics or materials.
- Wood from the Oriental plane is used in woodturning and cabinet making, valued for its workability and finish.
- In some cultures, the leaves of the Oriental plane are used as a wrap for traditional foods, imparting a unique flavor and helping to preserve the contents.
- The large leaves of the Oriental plane serve as a natural mulch, which gardeners use to enrich the soil as they decompose.
- Oriental plane trees are sometimes planted as a part of agroforestry systems, where their robust structure can provide support for climbing plants such as vine crops.
- Artisans use the wood from the Oriental plane to create musical instruments, appreciating the acoustic properties imparted by its even grain.
- Fallen leaves from the Oriental plane are gathered and used in composting due to their nitrogen-rich properties, which accelerate the composting process.
- The robust roots of the Oriental plane help in preventing soil erosion along riverbanks where these trees are often found.
- Tree canopies of mature Oriental plane trees create scenic landscapes and are often used in photography and painting for their majestic and picturesque qualities.
- The Oriental plane's spacious and thick canopy provides shade in urban settings, which helps reduce the urban heat island effect, making city environments cooler.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Oriental Plane is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Oriental Plane is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: The Oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) can live for hundreds of years, often reaching a venerable age. This makes it a symbol of endurance and survival over time.
- Strength: With its robust trunk and extensive root system, the Oriental plane is seen as a symbol of strength and sturdiness.
- Unity: In some cultures, the plane tree represents unity due to its bark that sheds in patches, symbolizing the unity of diversity within a whole.
- Historical Significance: Since plane trees have been present in important cultural and historical locations, they often symbolize the witnessing of historical events and are associated with significant cultural memories.
- Healing: Historically, plane trees were often planted near hospitals and thought to have healing properties, which makes them represent health and recovery.
WaterThe Oriental Plane tree prefers consistent moisture and should be watered deeply about once a week, adjusting for rainfall and season. During hot and dry periods, the frequency may increase to twice a week. Establish young trees with regular watering, providing around 15 to 20 gallons per week until they are well rooted. Mature trees are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from occasional deep watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot, and ensure the soil has good drainage.
LightOriental Plane trees thrive in full sun to partial shade. They should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but they can tolerate some light shade. The best spot for an Oriental Plane tree would be an open area away from buildings or other trees that could block sunlight.
TemperatureOriental Plane trees are hardy and can withstand a wide temperature range, from as low as -20°F to highs of 100°F. They are best suited to the temperature range found in USDA zones 7 through 10. The ideal growing temperatures for Oriental Plane trees are between 70°F and 90°F.
PruningOriental Plane trees are pruned to remove dead or diseased branches, to shape the tree for aesthetic purposes, and to prevent safety hazards. The best time to prune is during the dormant season, in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune young trees to establish a strong framework of branches, and mature trees may only require occasional thinning. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Oriental Plane tree thrives best in a well-draining soil medium that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 5.5 and 7.5. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite would provide an optimal environment for root growth. Regular mulching can help maintain soil moisture and provide nutrients.
RepottingThe Oriental Plane tree, being a large and fast-growing species, is typically not a candidate for repotting as it's often planted directly in the ground. In landscape settings, repotting is not applicable, but young trees might be transplanted to accommodate growth for the first few years until they are established.
Humidity & MistingThe Oriental Plane tree is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require specific humidity levels to thrive, making it an adaptable tree for various environments. It is naturally found near stream banks and in moist locations but is also resilient to drier conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growth due to size.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny location with ample space to grow.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleOriental Plane (Platanus orientalis) begins its life cycle as a seed, which requires a moist and well-drained soil for germination, occurring in spring. Upon germination, the seedling grows into a sapling, with the plant developing a sturdy trunk and beginning to exhibit its characteristic large, palmate leaves. As it enters the vegetative stage, the Oriental Plane vigorously grows and eventually matures into a fully-fledged tree, which can happen after several years, depending on the environmental conditions. During its reproductive stage, the tree produces inflorescences known as aments in late spring, which after pollination by wind, develop into the round, spiky seed balls that disperse in the wind and water. The Oriental Plane can live for hundreds of years, creating a vast canopy and thick bark, and it may undergo periods of dormancy during colder months, shedding leaves to conserve resources. At the end of its life cycle, which may span several centuries, the tree eventually dies, either due to natural senescence, disease, or environmental factors, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Oriental Plane Tree (Platanus orientalis) is by seed. Seeds are typically collected from the tree after they ripen in the fall and can be sown immediately or stored and then stratified before planting in the spring. Stratification involves giving the seeds a period of cold treatment to break dormancy, which can be done by mixing the seeds with moist sand and refrigerating them for about 1-2 months at a temperature between 34 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 5 degrees Celsius). After stratification, the seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and lightly covered. Ideal germination occurs in a bright location with a steady temperature of around 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 30 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually appear within three to four weeks and can be grown on before being transplanted outdoors.
