Platanus orientalis Seeds | Oriental Plane
LATIN NAME: Platanus orientalis
COMMON NAME: Oriental Plane
Plant Profile
Platanus orientalis, better known as Oriental Plane, is a deciduous tree. In time it steadily becomes a rounded crown, reaching 5-10 metres. It thrives in sun and deep, rich, well-watered ground. At maturity it stands about 5-10 metres. The flowers pull in pollinating insects, which quietly widens its usefulness in the garden. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the Platanus group, Platanus orientalis contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Oriental plane has a rich and fascinating record in both historical and scientific research. In practice, its long garden history means the grower inherits a plant of known and dependable habits.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Oriental Plane for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Ecologically, oriental plane is a generous tree. Its flowers feed bees and other insects, its fruiting heads and seeds feed birds and small mammals, and its vast canopy gives shade, shelter and nesting sites for a great range of wildlife. Its economic value is real and historic. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Plane trees are the great city shade trees; their bark had folk astringent use, and their London-form tolerance of pollution is legend.
Growing from Seed
Raising Oriental Plane from seed is straightforward. Growing an oriental plane from seed is easy and very rewarding. Seeds sit inside round, bristly fruiting heads, and they do well in cool, moist conditions. Use a fine, free-draining seed compost, scatter the seed evenly, cover it lightly and hold it just moist in good light. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
As a deciduous tree, it settles into a routine quickly once established. It tolerates the sort of small mistakes every beginner makes.
Related Reading
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