Platanus acerifolia

Why it’s special
For its name alone, this handsome ornamental tree – which can reach 100ft or more - will always be associated with a city landscape. And yet one of the largest specimens can be found on the Isle of Wight as a centrepiece of one of the Island’s most attractive landscaped gardens. The London Planetree’s most striking feature is its ornamental bark that flakes off to reveal a smooth white bark underneath.

Where to find it
Morton Manor, outside Brading on the east side of the Isle of Wight, has one of the country’s largest specimens, possibly the largest – more than 130ft high and with a girth of 17ft at its base.

What else is there at Morton Manor?
The London Planetree is one of a trio of splendid specimens that also includes an ancient Magnolia grandiflora, one of the oldest examples in the UK, and a Black Mulberry, uprooted in the 1987 hurricane but now nearly fully grown again. Dating back to 1249, the manor boasts a huge collection of Japanese Acers and an Elizabethan sunken garden in its handsome landscaped grounds.

Best time to see
Summer

Find out more: 01983 406168
Open: Easter-end October. 10am-5.30pm daily excluding Saturday. Last admissions: 4.30pm
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