London Plane Trees in Perth — The Iconic Shade Tree of Perth Streets
 
The London Plane Tree (Platanus × acerifolia) is one of the most recognised and widely planted large trees in Perth — and for good reason. With its extraordinary mottled exfoliating bark, massive shade canopy, outstanding tolerance of urban conditions, and beautiful golden autumn foliage, it's a tree that has proven itself over generations as one of the best large deciduous shade trees available in WA.
 
Perth's Most Iconic Street and Park Tree
 
Walk through almost any established Perth suburb or park and you'll encounter London Plane Trees — they're one of the most common large trees in the city, lining streets from Fremantle to Subiaco, Claremont to Leederville. Their prevalence in Perth is a testament to how well they perform in WA's conditions — tolerating heat, drought once established, urban pollution, compacted soils, and a wide range of growing situations.
 
The London Plane is a hybrid tree developed in the 17th century from a cross between the Oriental Plane and the American Plane. It inherited the best qualities of both parents — outstanding adaptability, impressive size, and that distinctive bark that makes it immediately recognisable.
 
Spectacular Bark and Seasonal Beauty
 
The bark is one of the London Plane's most distinctive and beautiful features. It peels away in irregular patches to reveal a stunning mosaic of creamy white, olive green, and grey tones beneath — creating a year-round visual display that's particularly striking in winter when the tree is bare. No two trees have exactly the same bark pattern, making each one unique.
In summer the large, bold, maple-like leaves form a dense, spreading canopy that provides exceptional cooling shade. In autumn the foliage turns golden brown before dropping cleanly — marking the seasons clearly in Perth's relatively mild climate.
 
Key Features at a Glance
Mature height: 15 – 25 metres
Mature width: 10 metres
Aspect: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained soils; adapts to most soil types except waterlogged
Deciduous: Yes — golden brown autumn colour
Bark: Mottled exfoliating grey, cream and olive — highly ornamental
Pollution tolerant: Yes — excellent for urban Perth environments
Wind tolerant: Yes — note: not salt tolerant, avoid frontline coastal positions
Growth rate: Moderate to fast
Best suited to: Large Perth gardens, street and avenue planting, parks, large rural properties
 
Growing London Plane in Perth
 
Plant in full sun in well-drained, fertile soil. Water regularly and deeply while establishing — the London Plane benefits from consistent moisture during its first few years in Perth's dry summers. Once established it becomes considerably more drought tolerant and requires less maintenance.
It's highly tolerant of urban conditions including air pollution and compacted soils — making it one of the better large trees for Perth streetscapes and suburban gardens. It can also be managed through pruning techniques such as pollarding to keep it at a more manageable size if needed.
Note: while wind tolerant, the London Plane does not handle salt spray well — avoid planting in frontline coastal positions in Perth.
 
Best Suited To
Large shade trees in Perth suburban gardens and properties
Street and avenue planting — one of Perth's most proven performers
Parks, ovals, and open spaces across WA
Large rural properties wanting fast-growing shade
Any Perth garden wanting a classic, long-lived deciduous shade tree with spectacular bark
 
Order Your London Plane Tree Online
 
Perth Trees Direct delivers healthy, established London Plane Trees direct to your door across the Perth metro area. Professional planting and installation can be added using the dropdown above. Contact us at info@perthtreesdirect.com.au if you have any questions about whether the London Plane is right for your Perth garden.