Platanus × hispanica is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Platanaceae family). It is a hybrid between Platanus orientalis (oriental plane, also present in Whiteknights Park) and Platanus occidentalis (occidental plane, or American sycamore). Since these are Eurasian and American species, respectively, the hybrid arose only because they were planted in proximity by human intervention, probably in the 17th century. Once established, it grows rapidly and can reach 30 metres, and with a widely spreading crown and broad trunk. Its bark flakes off in plates, producing a mottled appearance of light brown and grey-green.

Platanus × hispanica has large bright green leaves, usually with five lobes, not as deeply divided as those of Platanus orientalis. They resemble maple leaves, as indicated by the synonym Platanus × acerifolia for the species, in which acerifolia means "maple leaves". (The similarity of plane and maple leaves is noted also by the common name "American sycamore" for Platanus occidentalis, whereas the species called "sycamore" in Britain is one of the maple family, Acer pseudoplatanus, in which pseudoplatanus means "false plane".) The leaves turn orange or bronze in autumn. The fruit of the tree are small round spiky balls that hang in pairs or clusters.

On account of the large size of the tree and its leaves, Platanus × hispanica is a good tree for shade. It is widely planted in cities for this reason, and for its resilience and adaptability. It tolerates pollution, compacted soils, and pollarding, making it one of the most successful trees for temperate climates in towns, where it improves air quality and contributes to the character of the urban landscape. It is a common sight along streets and in parks, for instance in London, Paris and New York City.

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