Umbrella London plane

Tree Information
 
Tree Information  
Latin Name Platanus x acerifolia “Dachförmig”
Order Proteales
Family Platanaceae
Common Name Umbrella London plane
Other Names  
Native Range Spain, southern France
Supported Wildlife Various insects
Uses Landscaping of avenues and streets
Year Planted Before 1952
Location

47°41'04.7"N 8°40'33.1"E

47°41'05.0"N 8°40'33.1"E

47°41'05.1"N 8°40'33.1"E

47°41'05.3"N 8°40'33.2"E

47°41'05.5"N 8°40'33.2"E

About this tree

The cultivar Platanus × hispanica “Dachförmig” is a variation of the London plane, characterized by its distinctive, umbrella-like shape. Typically reaching a height of 20–25 m, this tree features a broad canopy with a characteristic dome-like structure, making it an ideal choice for urban parks or streets where an evenly distributed canopy is desired. Like the parent species, it has mottled, exfoliating bark and large, palmate leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn. The small, inconspicuous flowers bloom in spring, followed by the spiky seed balls that persist through winter. This cultivar, like other London planes, thrives in urban environments due to its exceptional tolerance to pollution, drought, and compacted soils. Its habitat value is similar to the species as a whole, supporting birds and insects. An unusual aspect of “Dachförmig” is its more compact and symmetrical growth, which allows for better control in formal garden designs or when used in avenues and streetscapes. While not as common as the standard London plane, this cultivar’s unique form and adaptability have made it a popular choice for ornamental and street plantings.