Platanus x acerifolia 'Bloodgood': 'Bloodgood' London Planetree

Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson2

Introduction
A large tree resulting in a cross between Platanus orientalis and Platanus occidentalis suitable for use in USDA hardiness zone 4b or warmer. The tree will reach a height of 85 feet and a spread of 70 feet. Pyramidal in youth, it develops a spreading rounded crown with age supported by a few, very large-diameter branches. These branches should be spaced two to four feet apart along the trunk to develop a strong structure. The dominant central leader which typically develops on London Planetree usually assures that the structure of major limbs is desirable with little corrective pruning required other than removing occasionally occurring upright branches with tight crotches. It is also helpful to thin out the many branches which develop early on the central trunk. The bark is patchy and very attractive and may be the plants best ornamental attribute. These patches range from creamy-white to olive-green. Large sections of bark may be shed from the tree as it grows older. This is normal and only needs to be disposed of.

Copyright 2012 University of Florida