London Planetree - Winter Silhouette - February 2026

Bought during the early days of COVID in 2020, this Big Box store tree has grown up and out over the years.  This tree sits in the far reaches of the backyard and is growing in front of the (never-quite-done-well) Lilacs.  The bend in the trunk is where (I think) the initial leader died back and a new one emerged.  Guessing that's when the nursery decided to pull this and stick it in a small container to sell at the Big Box store.  

The upright nature of the tree (right now) may be due to the environment (growing inside of a pair of other trees) or it could be how these grow.  But, that part isn't what is most interesting to me.  My eye is drawn to the exfoliating bark on the lower part of the trunk.  I posted a photo of this trunk last Spring.  I'll get back out there this year to take some close-ups. 

I first wrote about these trees on a trip to Paris in Luxembourg Gardens.  And wanted one after that visit.  

To the right is a volunteer American Elm that is growing inside of a wine barrel planter.  Or...it *was* growing inside the planter, but has broken out the bottom.  I'll write up a post showing that tree a little bit closer because it needs a bit of attention.