The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Columbia London planetree

Family: Platanaceae (planetree family)

Synonym: Platanus × acerifolia 'Columbia'

Distribution: hybrid: selection of Platanus orientalis × P. occidentalis

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: A very tolerant, fast growing hybrid and commonly used urban shade and street tree. Deciduous leaves are lobed and shed tiny hairs during summer causing breathing irritation in some people. Resistant to anthracnose and mildew that can defoliate native sycamores. Bark is mottled olive-green, tan and creamy colors, shedding in thin layers. Seeds are produced in 1" ball-like structure, 2-3 per stem. Ultimately 70' or more in height and spread. Little to no fall color. Site in full sun in moist to well-drained soil.