Oriental Plane, Oriental planetree

Platanus orientalis

Physical Characteristics

Platanus orientalis is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 30 m (98ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from October to February. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

S.E. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery Ophthalmic Vulnerary The leaves are astringent and vulnerary[7]. The fresh leaves are bruised and applied to the eyes in the treatment of ophthalmia[240]. A decoction is used to treat dysentery and a cream made from the leaves is used to heal wounds and chilblains[7]. The leaves are harvested in the spring and summer and can be dried for later use[7]. The bark is boiled in vinegar and then used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, hernias and toothache[240].

Known Hazards

In hot dry climates the hairs of the fruits and leaves are believed to cause an effect similar to hay fever[11, 200].