Southern Utah University

Table of Contents

Locations

  1. Campus Features

    1. Tree Tour

      1. London Plane Tree (Plantanus x acerifolia)

        Latin Name - Plantanus x acerifolia
        Height - 70-80 feet
        Spread - 70-80 feet
        Growth Rate - Moderate
        USDA Zone - 5
        Drought Tolerance - Moderate

        This magnificent tree is arguably the most beautiful tree on campus. Thousands have enjoyed its shade while waiting for a play in the adjacent Adams Theater. London plane is known for its beautiful exfoliating bark layers of tan and olive green. The tree performs well in many environments. Landscape personnel who work with this tree also know that it drops twigs, bark pieces and fuzzy seed balls. Leaves have no fall color and often persist on the tree into winter, sometimes not coming down until pushed off by new spring growth. As such, London plane requires more cleanup maintenance than many other trees, but its stature, winter bark interest and welcome shade make it popular with landscape architects and homeowners alike.