This hybrid is the result of a cross between P. occidentalis and P. orientalis. It is sometimes listed as P. x hybrida.

Mature Height/Spread: This tree grows 70 to 100 feet tall, 65 to 80 feet wide. It can reach 120 feet in height under ideal conditions.

Growth Rate: It grows at a moderate to rapid rate (2 feet per year) and has a moderate to long life span.

Ornamental Features: This tree is similar to American planetree with a few exceptions: The spread is not as great, bark is duller (but still showy) and fruit hang in pairs.

Landscape Use: London planetree should be reserved for naturalized areas next to streams and rivers, or sites where litter and aggressive roots are not an issue. It needs ample space to develop.

This tree prefers deep, rich, moist, well-drained soils but will grow in almost anything. It grows in either high or low pH soils. Although it prefers moist soils, it tolerates moderate drought. It prefers sun or very light shade.

Problems: London planetree suffers from most of the same disease and insect problems as American planetree. Cankerstain can be very serious on this tree. Some cultivars are somewhat resistant to powdery mildew and anthracnose. (Disease resistance means that infections are few, do not progress very far or do not occur.)

Other problems with aggressive roots, litter and turf growth beneath the canopy are similar to American planetree.

Cultivars

* ‘Columbia’ and ‘Liberty’ are reportedly more resistant (not immune) to powdery mildew and eastern strains of anthracnose.
* ‘Bloodgood’ is somewhat resistant to anthracnose but susceptible to mildew.