In this second Trunk of the Month post, we'll be looking at the oriental plane (Platanus orientalis), the smaller cousin of the well known and widely planted London plane (Platanus x hispanica / Platanus x acerifolia).
While the oriental plane tends to be about 15 metres shorter than the London plane, at around 30 metres, it still makes quite an impact. With beautiful green leaves that are even more deeply lobed than those of London plane and very similar ball-like spiny fruits. However, for me, the most impressive part of this tree, native to the Balkans and eastwards into Asia, is the trunk.
As with the London plane, the flakes away over time and leaves behind a beautiful mottled effect. There have always been thoughts that this chipping allows the tree to deal with pollution, with Richard Mabey writing in Flora Britannica that it "is no longer reckoned to have a similar cleansing effect". However in a recent edition of Horticulture Week, the bark is said to absorb pollution through its bark and the hairs of its leaves - both of which will be shed in time. Perhaps in the native ranges of this tree, the shedding of the bark is an adaptation for removing diseases and disorders? I had a brief look through my University's online catalogue, but nothing jumped out at me! (References to studies performed will be welcome in the comments).
If the tree has been there for any length of time, then a quick look at the ground will reveal lots of shed bark. This must stop mosses and lichen from completely taking over the surface of the trunk, as we can see some lichen on the top right flake below.
In 2010, the BBC reported that a oriental plane planted by Capability Brown, in nearby Corsham, was the "most spreading" tree in the UK. Planted in 1760, most of the branches are now on the ground. But, they're still alive and well and with an average spread of 64 metres, it is the most vast tree the UK has to offer!
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and find a tree trunk to admire and appreciate!
References:
BBC News - Corsham Court Oriental plane 'most spreading tree in UK'. 2015. BBC News - Corsham Court Oriental plane 'most spreading tree in UK'. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-13682775. [Accessed 09 February 2015].
Kimberley, M 2014, 'Platanus', Horticulture Week, pp. 20-21,
Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 9 February 2015.
Richard Mabey, 1997. Flora Britannica. First Edition Edition. Sinclair Stevenson.
I like this series, Tim! Maybe I'll find a tree with a trunk that will inspire a post.
ReplyDeleteThat would be great. I hope you find one. :)
DeleteTree trunks and bark are so full of character. Your Oriental Plane (and the London Plane) is one to be admired, for sure!
ReplyDeleteYou're so right. I'm glad that I'm having a bit of a better look at them this year.
DeletePlane tree trunks - remarkable. (Though I think I'm most familiar with the London Kind.) And the seed balls - so odd and special too.
ReplyDeleteIt's a wonderful tree, isn't it. So much to offer, from bark to fruit to leaves. :)
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