Platanus is a genus of trees collectively known as Plane Trees. It is a small genus consisting of only a small number of tree species native to the Northern Hemisphere. They are the sole living members of the family Platanaceae. All mature members of Platanus are tall, reaching 30–50 m in height. The principal use of these trees is as ornamental trees, especially in urban areas, parks and by roadsides.

Platanus x hispanica, synonymously known as Platanus × acerifolia, or hybrid plane, and commonly known as London Plane or London Plane Tree is usually thought to be a hybrid of Platanus orientalis (Oriental Plane) and Platanus occidentalis (American Sycamore), although some authorities believe that it may be a cultivar of Platanus orientalis. The London plane is a large deciduous tree growing up to 20m to 30 m tall and in rare cases over 40m tall, and with a trunk that can measure up to 3m or more in circumference. It is very similar in appearance to Platanus occidentalis although Platanus x hispanica is almost exclusively planted in urban habitats, while Platanus occidentalis is mostly found growing in lowlands and alluvial soils along streams. The London Plane is one of the most efficient trees in removing small particulate pollutants in urban areas and is grown in cities around the world. When quarter-sawn, the timber has a distinctive and highly decorative appearance of dark reddish-brown flecks against a lighter background and is known as lacewood.