The London plane or maple-leaved plane tree (Platanus x hispanica) is a mighty tree reaching up to 30 meters in height, which probably originated from a cross between the Oriental and the Occidental plane tree. The plane tree is a very popular and widespread avenue tree throughout Europe due to its tolerance to car exhaust fumes. In old age, the tree develops wide spreading branches on a relatively short, sturdy trunk, which is a striking sight with its characteristically smooth, gray to greenish-white bark that flakes off in large plates. The young leaves are covered with very fine hairs, but lose these with age and acquire a very shiny, smooth surface. The fruits are characteristically round and spherical with spines, hanging like nuts on long soft stalks. The wood of the plane tree is suitable for almost all types of work, but is rarely used for barrels, carpentry, interior fittings and woodturning. Very characteristic are the shiny mirrors that become visible through numerous medullary rays in the radial cut, which give the wood a beautiful structure.
