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{{short description| Tree}}
{{redirects here|Chinar|other uses|Chinar (disambiguation)}}
{{Speciesbox
{{Speciesbox
| image = Plane tree Grove Tsav River.jpg
| name = Oriental plane
| image = Platanus orientalis tree.JPG
| image_caption = Natural forest of ''Platanus orientalis'' in Armenia
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| status = DD
| image_caption =
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| status_system = IUCN3.1
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| status = LR/lc
| status_ref = <ref name="iucn status 13 November 2021">{{cite iucn |author=Barstow, M. |author2=Rivers, M.C. |date=2017 |title=''Platanus orientalis'' |volume=2017 |page=e.T33951A68135880 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T33951A68135880.en |access-date=13 November 2021}}</ref>
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| status_system = IUCN2.3
| status_ref = <ref name=iucn/>
| genus = Platanus
| genus = Platanus
| species = orientalis
| species = orientalis
| authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]
| authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]
| range_map = Platanus orientalis range.svg
| range_map_caption = Distribution map
}}
}}


'''''Platanus orientalis''''', the '''Old World sycamore''', or '''Oriental plane''',<ref name=BSBI07>{{cite web |title=BSBI List 2007 |publisher=Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland |url=http://www.bsbi.org.uk/BSBIList2007.xls |format=xls |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6VqJ46atN?url=http://www.bsbi.org.uk/BSBIList2007.xls |archive-date=2015-01-25 |accessdate=2014-10-17 |deadurl=yes |df= }}</ref> is a large, [[deciduous]] [[tree]] of the Platanaceae [[family (biology)|family]], growing to {{convert|30|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} or more,<ref name=RHSAZ>{{cite book|title=RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants|year=2008|publisher=Dorling Kindersley|location=United Kingdom|isbn=1405332964|pages=1136}}</ref> and known for its longevity and spreading crown.
'''''Platanus orientalis''''', the '''Oriental plane''',<ref name=BSBI07>{{BSBI 2007 |access-date=2014-10-17}}</ref> is a large, [[deciduous]] [[tree]] of the Platanaceae [[family (biology)|family]], growing to {{convert|30|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} or more,<ref name=RHSAZ>{{cite book|title=RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants|year=2008|publisher=Dorling Kindersley|location=United Kingdom|isbn=978-1405332965|pages=1136}}</ref> and known for its longevity and spreading crown. In autumn its deep green leaves may change to blood red, amber, and yellow.


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
The species name means 'eastern'. (In comparison, the 'western' plane (or American sycamore) is named ''[[Platanus occidentalis]]'') The eastern plane's original distribution was eastward from the Balkans. The tree was called ''platane'' in ancient Greek history and literature and by related names in continental Europe. Equally well known in Asia and from Anatolia (modern Turkey) to India and usually called ''chinar'' or ''chenar''. In the Kashmir Valley region, the native Kashmiri word for the tree is ''boonyi''.
The species' name ''orientalis'' means 'eastern' (in comparison, the 'western' plane (or American sycamore), the only other species known to Linnaeus, is named ''[[Platanus occidentalis]]''). The tree was called ''platane'' in ancient Greek history and literature and by related names in continental Europe. Equally well known in Asia from [[Anatolia]] to [[India]] and usually called ''chinar'' or ''chenar''.


==Range==
==Range==
The [[native plant|native]] range is Eurasia from the Balkans to at least as far east as Iran. Some accounts extend its native range to Iberia in the west, and to the Himalayas in the east. As it has been known in cultivation from early times in much of this region it can be difficult to determine if it is truly indigenous in peripheral areas.
The [[native plant|native]] distribution is from [[Italy]] east through the Balkans, Turkey, and the [[Caucasus]] to [[Iran]].<ref name="POWO">{{Cite POWO |last1=POWO |author-link1=Plants of the World Online |id=685873-1 |title=''Platanus orientalis'' L. |access-date=8 August 2024 }}</ref> Some accounts extend its native range west to the [[Iberian Peninsula|Iberia]],Israel to the south and to the Himalayas in the east. As it has been known in cultivation from early times in much of this region it can be difficult to determine if it is truly indigenous in peripheral areas.


==Description==
==Description==
[[File:Fruits of Platanus orientalis.jpg|thumb|Fruits and leaves of Oriental plane]]
[[File:Fruits of Platanus orientalis.jpg|thumb|Fruit and leaves of Oriental plane]]
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The oriental plane is found naturally in riverine settings, together with such trees as [[alder]], [[willow]] and [[Populus|poplar]].<!--from Rodwell and Dring, in English Nature Research Reports, no. 460, European significance of British woodland types. --> However, it is quite capable of survival and success in dry soils once it is established. It can grow into a massive tree with many examples hundreds of years old. Around ten trees are known from the past and present with a diameter of {{Convert|4|m|ft|abbr=on}} or more with several specimens around {{Convert|100|m3|abbr=on}} in total volume.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oriental Planes (Platanus orientalis) worldwide |url=https://www.monumentaltrees.com/en/world-orientalplane/ |access-date=2022-06-03 |website=MonumentalTrees.com}}</ref>
[[File:Gəncədə Xan bağı.JPG|thumb|Oriental planes in late medieval Khans Garden park. [[Ganja, Azerbaijan|Ganja city]], [[Azerbaijan]].]]
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The oriental plane is found naturally in riverine settings, together with such trees as [[alder]], [[willow]] and [[Populus|poplar]].<!--from Rodwell and Dring, in English Nature Research Reports, no. 460, European significance of British woodland types. --> However, it is quite capable of survival and success in dry soils once it is established.


Like other [[Platanus|plane trees]], its leaves are borne alternately on the stem, deeply lobed, and [[palmate]] or [[maple]]-like. It usually has flaking bark, occasionally not flaking and becoming thick and rugged. Flowers and fruit are round and burr-like, borne in clusters of between 2 and 6 on a stem. Considerable variation exists among trees in the wild, and this may be complicated by crossbreeding with planted [[London plane]]s (''Platanus x acerifolia''), the [[Hybrid (biology)|hybrid]] of ''P. orientalis'' with the [[American sycamore]] (''Platanus occidentalis'').
Like other [[Platanus|plane trees]], its leaves are borne alternately on the stem, deeply lobed, and [[palmate]] or [[maple]]-like. It usually has flaking bark, occasionally not flaking and becoming thick and rugged. Flowers and fruit are round and burr-like, borne in clusters of between two and six on a stem. Considerable variation exists among trees in the wild, and this may be complicated by crossbreeding with planted [[London plane]]s (''Platanus x acerifolia''), the [[Hybrid (biology)|hybrid]] of ''P. orientalis'' with the [[American sycamore]] (''Platanus occidentalis'').


==Cultivation==
==Cultivation==
The tree is capable of being grown in most temperate latitudes, though it benefits greatly from warm summers. As a very large and wide tree with broad, thick leaves that tend to orient horizontally, it is especially prized for the shade and coolness it provides during the hot season.
The tree is capable of being grown in most temperate latitudes, though it benefits greatly from warm summers. As a very large and wide tree with broad, thick leaves that tend to orient horizontally, it is especially prized for the shade and coolness it provides during the hot season.

It grows best in rich soil in a sunny location<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Platanus+orientalis|title=Platanus orientalis Oriental Plane, Oriental planetree PFAF Plant Database|website=pfaf.org|access-date=2020-01-27}}</ref> and can survive drought well. Although young plants appreciate regular watering.


==Other uses==
==Other uses==
The leaves and bark have been used medicinally. A fabric dye has been made from the twigs and roots. The [[timber]], often called '''lacewood''', is figured and valuable for indoor furniture. The leaves are also often used by artists for [[leaf carving]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/incredible-artwork-hand-carved-from-leaves-2011-8|title=Incredible Artwork Hand-Carved From Leaves|author=Dina Spector|date=August 18, 2011|publisher=Business Insider|accessdate=May 30, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/16/leaf-carving-artists-branching-out_n_925700.html|title=Leaf Carving Artists In China Branching Out Into Pop Culture|publisher=Huffington Post|author=David Moye|date=August 16, 2011|accessdate=May 30, 2016}}</ref>
The leaves and bark have been used medicinally. A fabric dye has been made from the twigs and roots. The [[timber]], often called '''lacewood''', is figured and valuable for indoor furniture. The leaves are also often used by artists for [[leaf carving]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/incredible-artwork-hand-carved-from-leaves-2011-8|title=Incredible Artwork Hand-Carved From Leaves|author=Dina Spector|date=August 18, 2011|publisher=Business Insider|access-date=May 30, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/16/leaf-carving-artists-branching-out_n_925700.html|title=Leaf Carving Artists In China Branching Out Into Pop Culture|publisher=Huffington Post|author=David Moye|date=August 16, 2011|access-date=May 30, 2016}}</ref>


==Cultural history==
==Cultural history==
From earliest days, ''P. orientalis'' has been an important tree in [[Persian garden]]s, which are built around water and shade. There it is known as the ''chenar''.


===Greece===
===Greece===
[[File:Plane tree of Hippocrates.jpg|thumb|left|The "Tree of Hippocrates" in [[Kos, Greece]], possibly a descendant of the original.]]
[[File:Plane tree of Hippocrates.jpg|thumb|The "Tree of Hippocrates" in [[Kos, Greece]], possibly a descendant of the original.]]


The [[Tree of Hippocrates]], under which Hippocrates — the "Father of Medicine" — taught at [[Kos]], is reputed to have been an oriental plane. A 500-year-old tree presently there may be on the same site and may have been planted from a succession of cuttings from the original. The Athenian Academy, outside Athens, featured a [[sacred grove]] of planes where the students listened to the masters and where among others the [[Peripatetics]] practiced philosophy.
The [[Tree of Hippocrates]], under which Hippocrates — the "Father of Medicine" — taught at [[Kos]], is reputed to have been an oriental plane. A 500-year-old tree presently there may be on the same site and may have been planted from a succession of cuttings from the original. The [[Platonic Academy|Athenian Academy]], outside Athens, featured a [[sacred grove]] of planes where the students listened to the masters and where among others the [[Peripatetics]] practiced philosophy.


Many villages in Greece feature plane trees in their main squares, frequently found alongside them are water springs that in the past would serve as the main water source for the villagers; usually these are quite old trees with their age seen as a point of pride for the local inhabitants. Occasionally the oldest trees exhibit partially hollowed out trunks, with cavities large enough to provide amusement opportunities for local or visiting children and teenagers, and even serving (along with the rest of the tree) as tourist attractions or at least in one [[Loutraki, Aetolia-Akarnania|occasion]] a shrine.
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[[Pliny the Elder|Pliny]]'s ''[[Pliny's Natural History|Natural History]]''<ref>XII.3.</ref> records the westward progress of the plane "introduced among us from a foreign clime for nothing but its shade", planted first at the tomb of Diomedes on the island of Tremiti, then imported to Greek Sicily by [[Dionysius the Elder]] (c. 432-367 BC), tyrant of Syracuse. He had plane-trees conveyed to the city of [[Rhegium]] (Reggio di Calabria), where they were looked upon as the great marvel of his palace, according to Pliny's sources. From there it spread by the first century CE as far as the lands of the [[Morini]] in Belgic Gaul. Regardless of why it may have been introduced, the tree had medicinal uses from early times. Pliny<ref>XXIV.29</ref> details 25 remedies using preparation from the bark, leaves and excrescences of plane. Pliny prescribes it for burns, bites, stings, frostbite and infections.


===Rome===
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Pliny goes on to describe some legendary plane-trees.<ref>XII.5</ref> There was one on the grounds of the Athenian Academy, he says, that had roots {{convert|50|ft|m}} long. [[Licinius Mucianus]] held a banquet for 19 in a hollow plane-tree of Lycia, and the emperor [[Caligula]] another for 15 plus servants in a tree house (nest) built in the branches of a plane-tree at [[Velletri]].
⚫
[[Pliny the Elder|Pliny]]'s ''[[Pliny's Natural History|Natural History]]''<ref>XII.3.</ref> records the westward progress of the plane "introduced among us from a foreign clime for nothing but its shade", planted first at the tomb of Diomedes on the island of Tremiti, then imported to Greek Sicily by [[Dionysius the Elder]] (c. 432-367 BC), tyrant of Syracuse. He had plane-trees conveyed to the city of [[Rhegium]] (Reggio di Calabria), where they were looked upon as the great marvel of his palace, according to Pliny's sources. From there it spread by the first century CE as far as the lands of the [[Morini]] in Belgic Gaul. Regardless of why it may have been introduced, the tree had medicinal uses from early times. Pliny<ref>XXIV.29</ref> details 25 remedies using preparation from the bark, leaves and excrescences of plane. Pliny prescribes it for burns, bites, stings, frostbite and infections.


⚫
Pliny goes on to describe some legendary plane trees.<ref>XII.5</ref> There was one on the grounds of the Athenian Academy, he says, that had roots {{convert|50|ft|m}} long. [[Licinius Mucianus]] held a banquet for 19 in a hollow plane-tree of Lycia, and the emperor [[Caligula]] another for 15 plus servants in a tree house (nest) built in the branches of a plane-tree at [[Velletri]].
Most small villages in Greece have one or more very old planes in their central square, where the village water spring used to be (water springs are nowadays replaced by water taps from the same spring captured). Many of them are set in cavities, which are often playing and meeting points for children and teenagers, or are cared for, sometimes even illuminated, as tourist attractions.


===Kashmir===
===Kashmir===
[[File:Char Chinar.jpg|thumb|right|Famous [[Char Chinar]] ("four chinar trees") island on [[Dal lake]], [[Srinagar]], [[Jammu and Kashmir]], [[India]].]]
[[File:Char Chinar.jpg|thumb|right|Famous [[Char Chinar]] island containing four chinar trees on [[Dal lake]] in [[Srinagar]], [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]], [[India]]]]


The ''chinar'' tree can be found throughout the landscape of the [[Kashmir Valley]] in the Indian [[western Himalayas]], planted across hillsides and cities, and is seen as a symbol for the region, locally known as ''bouin'' in [[Kashmiri language|Kashmiri]] and ''chinar'' in [[Hindustani language|Hindustani]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=[9]|url=http://jktourism.org/index.php/chinar|date=May 19, 2020|website=Official Website of Jammu & Kashmir Tourism}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kaul |first=Prof Upendra |date=2023-08-23 |title=Chinar: The Heritage Tree of Kashmir |url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/opinion/chinar-the-heritage-tree-of-kashmir/#:~:text=7:17%20am-,Chinar,%20Bouin%20to%20us%20in%20Kashmiri,%20is%20a%20large%20deciduous,as%20early%20as%201400%20BC. |access-date=2024-09-04 |website=Greater Kashmir |language=en-US}}</ref> Excavations from the [[Burzahom archaeological site]] have revealed charcoal remains of the tree from the Neolithic period.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lone |first=Abdul Rashid |title=Prehistoric Archaeology of Kashmir: An Overview|url=https://www.sahapedia.org/prehistoric-archaeology-of-kashmir-overview |work=[[Sahapedia]]}}</ref> Muslim Kashmiris believe that the ''chinar'' was brought to Kashmir valley by Islamic preachers from [[Iran]] in 14th century AD, while Hindu Kashmiris hold a view that the tree was traditionally planted near Hindu holy places in Kashmir and is associated with Hindu goddess ''[[Bhavani]]'', from whom it derives its Kashmiri name ''bouin''.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Chinar Tree, "Bouin" of Kashmir- Symbol of Goddess Bhawani|first=Pran Nath|last=Wanchoo|url=http://vitasta.org/2002/1.8.html|journal=Vitasta|volume=XXXV|date=2001–2002|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20061205024600/http://vitasta.org/2002/1.8.html|archivedate=2006-12-05}}</ref>
In historic [[Kashmir]], the tree was planted near Hindu holy places under names derived from the goddess [[Bhavani]]. Later in Muslim times it continued to be a major garden and landscape tree and dominates many historic gardens,<ref>{{cite journal|title=Chinar Tree, "Bouin" of Kashmir- Symbol of Goddess Bhawani|first=Pran Nath|last=Wanchoo|url=http://vitasta.org/2002/1.8.html|journal=Vitasta|volume=XXXV|date=2001–2002|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20061205024600/http://vitasta.org/2002/1.8.html|archivedate=2006-12-05|df=}}</ref> now generally called ''boonyi'' in local Kashmiri and ''chinar'' by Hindi/Urdu speakers. For example, a famous landmark in [[Srinagar]] is an island on [[Dal Lake]] where four chinar trees stand, named [[Char Chinar]]. As another example, a 627-year-old ''chinar'' tree has been found at Chatargam, Chadoora, [[Badgam district]], [[Kashmir]], reportedly planted in 1374 AD by an Islamic mystic [[Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani]].<ref>{{cite web|title=627-year-old living legend found in Kashmir|url=http://www.merinews.com/catFull.jsp?articleID=128596|work=Merinews.com|date=2007-12-24|author=Rajesh Bhat}}</ref>


After the advent of Muslim rule, especially under the [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]], ''chinar'' became a major garden and landscape tree, and dominates many historic gardens. The tree known for its elegance and exuberance has remained an attraction for artists and litterateurs. One tree believed to be planted in 1374 A.D at the [[Chattergam]] village by an Islamic mystic Syed Abul Qaim Hamadani who accompanied [[Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani]] from [[Iran]] to [[Kashmir]], is believed by many in Kashmir to be the world's oldest surviving chinar tree.<ref>{{cite web|title=627-year-old living legend found in Kashmir|url=http://www.merinews.com/catFull.jsp?articleID=128596|author=Rajesh Bhat|date=2007-12-24|work=Merinews.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Mooney-Singh|first=Chris|date=2014|title=Pantun of the Chinar Grove (Sri Nagar, Kashmir)|journal=Manoa|volume=26|issue=1|pages=68–69|doi=10.1353/man.2014.0024|s2cid=143772200|issn=1527-943X}}</ref> Planting of chinar trees in Kashmir was greatly patronised by the Mughals, and later by [[Dogra Dynasty|Dogra rulers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2013/sunday-edition/symbol-of-paradise.html|title=Symbol of Paradise|date=16 June 2013|publisher=[[Daily Pioneer]]}}</ref>
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Chinar trees are being felled rapidly in Kashmir,<ref>{{cite web|title=Climate|url=http://anantnag.gov.in/climate.htm|publisher=Official Website of Anantag District|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20090313062145/http://anantnag.gov.in/climate.htm|archivedate=2009-03-13|df=}}</ref> although a recent ban has been enacted to curb cutting.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Ban on cutting Chinar trees in Kashmir|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-03-05/india/28054456_1_trees-kashmir-ban|date=5 March 2009|journal=The Times of India}}</ref> Chinar trees are now required to be registered and are considered State Property. Registered Chinars are painted white at their base. Increased awareness means most old Chinars are protected and looked after; however, some new Chinars must be cut as their growth can cause damage to roads and houses. Chinars are considered as the symbols of the Persian influence on the heritage of Kashmir.

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Chinar trees are being felled rapidly in Kashmir,<ref>{{cite web|title=Climate|url=http://anantnag.gov.in/climate.htm|publisher=Official Website of Anantag District|url-status=dead|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20090313062145/http://anantnag.gov.in/climate.htm|archive-date=2009-03-13}}</ref> although a ban was enacted in 2009 to curb cutting.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Ban on cutting Chinar trees in Kashmir|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ban-on-cutting-Chinar-trees-in-Kashmir/articleshow/4227201.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024131601/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-03-05/india/28054456_1_trees-kashmir-ban|url-status=live|archive-date=24 October 2012|journal=[[The Times of India]]|date=5 March 2009}}</ref> Chinar trees are now required to be registered, considered State Property, and painted white at their base.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indiagardening.com/garden-ideas/where-do-chinar-trees-grow-in-india/|title=Where Do Chinar Trees Grow In India|date=2019-10-25|website=India Gardening|language=en|access-date=2020-01-27}}</ref> [[Naseem Bagh]], a [[Mughal Gardens|Mughal garden]] near Srinagar with over 700 chinar trees has been developed as a Chinar Heritage Park by the [[University of Kashmir]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nasim Bagh|url=https://www.gardenvisit.com/gardens/nasim_bagh|access-date=2020-10-21|website=www.gardenvisit.com}}</ref>


===United Kingdom===
===United Kingdom===
In 2011 a specimen planted by [[Capability Brown]] was identified as the tree with the greatest known spread in the United Kingdom.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-13682775|title=Corsham Court Oriental plane 'most spreading tree in UK'|publisher=BBC News|date=2011-07-06|accessdate=2011-07-06}}</ref>
In 2011 a specimen planted by [[Capability Brown]] at [[Corsham Court]] in Wiltshire was identified by [[The_Tree_Register|The Tree Register of the British Isles]] as the tree with the greatest known spread in the United Kingdom.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-13682775|title=Corsham Court Oriental plane 'most spreading tree in UK'|work=BBC News|date=2011-07-06|access-date=2011-07-06}}</ref>

<br>
An example dating to at least 1762 is one of [[Kew Gardens]]' thirteen 'Heritage Trees'.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.monumentaltrees.com/en/gbr/england/cityoflondon/965_royalbotanicgardens/9199/|title=Oriental plane in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England, United Kingdom|website=monumentaltrees.com|accessdate=7 September 2018}}</ref>
An example dating to at least 1762 is one of [[Kew Gardens]]' thirteen 'Heritage Trees'.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.monumentaltrees.com/en/gbr/england/cityoflondon/965_royalbotanicgardens/9199/|title=Oriental plane in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England, United Kingdom|website=monumentaltrees.com|access-date=7 September 2018}}</ref>

The Pococke Garden at [[Christ Church, Oxford]] contains a specimen, known as The Pococke Tree, which is understood to have been planted by [[Edward Pococke]] from seed he collected in 1636 from [[Aleppo]]. With a girth of around 9 metres it is the oldest in the UK.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pococke Garden |url=https://www.chch.ox.ac.uk/pococke-garden |website=Christ Church |access-date=23 August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=Christ Church College's Hidden Gardens |journal=OX Magazine |url=https://www.oxmag.co.uk/articles/christ-church-collegeandrsquos-hidden-gardens/ |access-date=23 August 2022}}</ref>


==Cultural references==
==Cultural references==
A plane tree is the main theme in the aria [[Ombra mai fu]] composed by [[George Frideric Handel]], in which the main character, [[Xerxes I of Persia]], admires the shade of a plane tree. It is also the [[State tree]] of [[Azad Jammu and Kashmir]].
A plane tree is the main theme in the aria [[Ombra mai fu]] composed by [[George Frideric Handel]], in which the main character, [[Xerxes I of Persia]], admires the shade of a plane tree.


The Chinar leaf is considered a national symbol in [[Azad Kashmir|Azad Jammu and Kashmir]]. The [[:File:AzadKashmirSeal.png|government seal]] continues to include the leaf. Many universities, including the [[University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir|University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir]] also include the symbol.
During the [[2010 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony]], held in India, the aerostat used took the shape of a chinar tree under the 'tree of knowledge' segment of the ceremony. This was followed by representation of different seasons through image projections and different dance styles being performed by hundreds of cultural dancers from all across India.

It is the [[List of Indian state trees|State tree]] of the Indian [[union territory]] of [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]].<ref>{{cite web |title=National Identity Elements - States Ut Symbol G L |url=https://knowindia.gov.in/national-identity-elements/states-ut-symbol-g-l.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170908171111/http://knowindia.gov.in/national-identity-elements/states-ut-symbol-g-l.php |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 8, 2017 |website=[[Know India]]}}</ref> During the [[2010 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony]], held in India, the chinar tree was featured prominently in the 'tree of knowledge' segment of the ceremony.

The Pococke Tree in the Pococke Garden at [[Christ Church, Oxford|Christ Church]] is thought to be the inspiration for the Tumtum tree in Lewis Carol's poem [[Jabberwocky]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Alice in Gardenland |url=https://thegardenstrust.blog/2021/03/20/alice-in-gardenland/ |website=The Gardens Trust blog |date=20 March 2021 |publisher=[[The Gardens Trust]] |access-date=23 August 2022}}</ref>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed>
<gallery mode="packed">
File:Platanus orientalis foliage Partenit.jpg|Foliage
File:Platanus orientalis foliage Partenit.jpg|Foliage
File:Bursa016.jpg|[[Bursa]], Turkey
File:Bursa016.jpg|[[Bursa]], Turkey
File:Platanus orientalis 1bJPG.jpg|Cambron-Casteau Park, [[Belgium]]
File:Platanus orientalis 1bJPG.jpg|Cambron-Casteau Park, [[Belgium]]
File:Chinnar view.jpg|[[Srinagar]]
File:Kashmir University.jpg|Chinars at the [[Kashmir University]] in [[Srinagar]], Jammu and Kashmir during autumn
File:Leaf Of Platanus Orientalis .jpg|Leaf Of Platanus Orientalis (Kashmir)
File:TRSTENO ORIENTAL PLANE TREE, CROATIA.jpg|alt=|The Tresteno Plane, 3.8 m in diameter at breast height, one of the largest volume oriental plane trees.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|refs=
{{Reflist}}
<ref name=iucn>{{IUCN2006|assessor=World Conservation Monitoring Centre|year=1998|id=33951|title=Platanus orientalis|downloaded=10 May 2006}}</ref>
}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|Platanus orientalis}}
*[http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Platanus%20orientalis Plants for a Future]
*[http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Platanus%20orientalis Plants for a Future]
*[http://www.aranya.co.uk/planes/text/orientalis.html Platanus orientalis]
*[http://www.aranya.co.uk/planes/text/orientalis.html Platanus orientalis]
*[http://chenarestan.blogspot.com/2005/07/home-of-oriental-plane-tree.html Chenarestan]
*[http://www.euforgen.org/species/platanus-orientalis/ ''Platanus orientalis''] - information, genetic conservation units and related resources. [[European Forest Genetic Resources Programme]] (EUFORGEN)
*[http://www.euforgen.org/species/platanus-orientalis/ ''Platanus orientalis''] - information, genetic conservation units and related resources. [[European Forest Genetic Resources Programme]] (EUFORGEN)


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[[Category:Trees of Europe]]
[[Category:Garden plants of Asia]]
[[Category:Garden plants of Asia]]
[[Category:State symbols of Kashmir]]
[[Category:Garden plants of Europe]]
[[Category:Garden plants of Europe]]
[[Category:Ornamental trees]]
[[Category:Ornamental trees]]
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[[Category:Least concern biota of Europe]]
[[Category:Least concern biota of Europe]]
[[Category:Plants described in 1753]]
[[Category:Plants described in 1753]]
[[Category:Taxa named by Carl Linnaeus]]

Latest revision as of 14:06, 10 October 2024

"Chinar" redirects here. For other uses, see Chinar (disambiguation).

Platanus orientalis
Natural forest of Platanus orientalis in Armenia
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Order: Proteales
Family: Platanaceae
Genus: Platanus
Species:
P. orientalis
Binomial name
Platanus orientalis
Distribution map

Platanus orientalis, the Oriental plane,[2] is a large, deciduous tree of the Platanaceae family, growing to 30 m (98 ft) or more,[3] and known for its longevity and spreading crown. In autumn its deep green leaves may change to blood red, amber, and yellow.

Etymology

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The species' name orientalis means 'eastern' (in comparison, the 'western' plane (or American sycamore), the only other species known to Linnaeus, is named Platanus occidentalis). The tree was called platane in ancient Greek history and literature and by related names in continental Europe. Equally well known in Asia from Anatolia to India and usually called chinar or chenar.

Range

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The native distribution is from Italy east through the Balkans, Turkey, and the Caucasus to Iran.[4] Some accounts extend its native range west to the Iberia,Israel to the south and to the Himalayas in the east. As it has been known in cultivation from early times in much of this region it can be difficult to determine if it is truly indigenous in peripheral areas.

Description

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Fruit and leaves of Oriental plane

The oriental plane is found naturally in riverine settings, together with such trees as alder, willow and poplar. However, it is quite capable of survival and success in dry soils once it is established. It can grow into a massive tree with many examples hundreds of years old. Around ten trees are known from the past and present with a diameter of 4 m (13 ft) or more with several specimens around 100 m3 (3,500 cu ft) in total volume.[5]

Like other plane trees, its leaves are borne alternately on the stem, deeply lobed, and palmate or maple-like. It usually has flaking bark, occasionally not flaking and becoming thick and rugged. Flowers and fruit are round and burr-like, borne in clusters of between two and six on a stem. Considerable variation exists among trees in the wild, and this may be complicated by crossbreeding with planted London planes (Platanus x acerifolia), the hybrid of P. orientalis with the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis).

Cultivation

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The tree is capable of being grown in most temperate latitudes, though it benefits greatly from warm summers. As a very large and wide tree with broad, thick leaves that tend to orient horizontally, it is especially prized for the shade and coolness it provides during the hot season.

It grows best in rich soil in a sunny location[6] and can survive drought well. Although young plants appreciate regular watering.

Other uses

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The leaves and bark have been used medicinally. A fabric dye has been made from the twigs and roots. The timber, often called lacewood, is figured and valuable for indoor furniture. The leaves are also often used by artists for leaf carving.[7][8]

Cultural history

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Greece

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The "Tree of Hippocrates" in Kos, Greece, possibly a descendant of the original.

The Tree of Hippocrates, under which Hippocrates — the "Father of Medicine" — taught at Kos, is reputed to have been an oriental plane. A 500-year-old tree presently there may be on the same site and may have been planted from a succession of cuttings from the original. The Athenian Academy, outside Athens, featured a sacred grove of planes where the students listened to the masters and where among others the Peripatetics practiced philosophy.

Many villages in Greece feature plane trees in their main squares, frequently found alongside them are water springs that in the past would serve as the main water source for the villagers; usually these are quite old trees with their age seen as a point of pride for the local inhabitants. Occasionally the oldest trees exhibit partially hollowed out trunks, with cavities large enough to provide amusement opportunities for local or visiting children and teenagers, and even serving (along with the rest of the tree) as tourist attractions or at least in one occasion a shrine.

Rome

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Pliny's Natural History[9] records the westward progress of the plane "introduced among us from a foreign clime for nothing but its shade", planted first at the tomb of Diomedes on the island of Tremiti, then imported to Greek Sicily by Dionysius the Elder (c. 432-367 BC), tyrant of Syracuse. He had plane-trees conveyed to the city of Rhegium (Reggio di Calabria), where they were looked upon as the great marvel of his palace, according to Pliny's sources. From there it spread by the first century CE as far as the lands of the Morini in Belgic Gaul. Regardless of why it may have been introduced, the tree had medicinal uses from early times. Pliny[10] details 25 remedies using preparation from the bark, leaves and excrescences of plane. Pliny prescribes it for burns, bites, stings, frostbite and infections.

Pliny goes on to describe some legendary plane trees.[11] There was one on the grounds of the Athenian Academy, he says, that had roots 50 feet (15 m) long. Licinius Mucianus held a banquet for 19 in a hollow plane-tree of Lycia, and the emperor Caligula another for 15 plus servants in a tree house (nest) built in the branches of a plane-tree at Velletri.

Kashmir

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Famous Char Chinar island containing four chinar trees on Dal lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India

The chinar tree can be found throughout the landscape of the Kashmir Valley in the Indian western Himalayas, planted across hillsides and cities, and is seen as a symbol for the region, locally known as bouin in Kashmiri and chinar in Hindustani.[12][13] Excavations from the Burzahom archaeological site have revealed charcoal remains of the tree from the Neolithic period.[14] Muslim Kashmiris believe that the chinar was brought to Kashmir valley by Islamic preachers from Iran in 14th century AD, while Hindu Kashmiris hold a view that the tree was traditionally planted near Hindu holy places in Kashmir and is associated with Hindu goddess Bhavani, from whom it derives its Kashmiri name bouin.[15]

After the advent of Muslim rule, especially under the Mughals, chinar became a major garden and landscape tree, and dominates many historic gardens. The tree known for its elegance and exuberance has remained an attraction for artists and litterateurs. One tree believed to be planted in 1374 A.D at the Chattergam village by an Islamic mystic Syed Abul Qaim Hamadani who accompanied Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani from Iran to Kashmir, is believed by many in Kashmir to be the world's oldest surviving chinar tree.[16][17] Planting of chinar trees in Kashmir was greatly patronised by the Mughals, and later by Dogra rulers.[18]

Chinar trees are being felled rapidly in Kashmir,[19] although a ban was enacted in 2009 to curb cutting.[20] Chinar trees are now required to be registered, considered State Property, and painted white at their base.[21] Naseem Bagh, a Mughal garden near Srinagar with over 700 chinar trees has been developed as a Chinar Heritage Park by the University of Kashmir.[22]

United Kingdom

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In 2011 a specimen planted by Capability Brown at Corsham Court in Wiltshire was identified by The Tree Register of the British Isles as the tree with the greatest known spread in the United Kingdom.[23]

An example dating to at least 1762 is one of Kew Gardens' thirteen 'Heritage Trees'.[24]

The Pococke Garden at Christ Church, Oxford contains a specimen, known as The Pococke Tree, which is understood to have been planted by Edward Pococke from seed he collected in 1636 from Aleppo. With a girth of around 9 metres it is the oldest in the UK.[25][26]

Cultural references

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A plane tree is the main theme in the aria Ombra mai fu composed by George Frideric Handel, in which the main character, Xerxes I of Persia, admires the shade of a plane tree.

The Chinar leaf is considered a national symbol in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The government seal continues to include the leaf. Many universities, including the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir also include the symbol.

It is the State tree of the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.[27] During the 2010 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony, held in India, the chinar tree was featured prominently in the 'tree of knowledge' segment of the ceremony.

The Pococke Tree in the Pococke Garden at Christ Church is thought to be the inspiration for the Tumtum tree in Lewis Carol's poem Jabberwocky.[28]

[edit]
  • Foliage
    Foliage
  • Bursa, Turkey
    Bursa, Turkey
  • Cambron-Casteau Park, Belgium
    Cambron-Casteau Park, Belgium
  • Chinars at the Kashmir University in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir during autumn
    Chinars at the Kashmir University in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir during autumn
  • Leaf Of Platanus Orientalis (Kashmir)
    Leaf Of Platanus Orientalis (Kashmir)
  • The Tresteno Plane, 3.8 m in diameter at breast height, one of the largest volume oriental plane trees.

References

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  1. ^ Barstow, M.; Rivers, M.C. (2017). "Platanus orientalis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2017: e.T33951A68135880. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T33951A68135880.en. Retrieved 13 November 2021.
  2. ^ BSBI List 2007 (xls). Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland. Archived from the original (xls) on 2015-06-26. Retrieved 2014-10-17.
  3. ^ RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants. United Kingdom: Dorling Kindersley. 2008. p. 1136. ISBN 978-1405332965.
  4. ^ POWO. "Platanus orientalis L." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 8 August 2024.
  5. ^ "Oriental Planes (Platanus orientalis) worldwide". MonumentalTrees.com. Retrieved 2022-06-03.
  6. ^ "Platanus orientalis Oriental Plane, Oriental planetree PFAF Plant Database". pfaf.org. Retrieved 2020-01-27.
  7. ^ Dina Spector (August 18, 2011). "Incredible Artwork Hand-Carved From Leaves". Business Insider. Retrieved May 30, 2016.
  8. ^ David Moye (August 16, 2011). "Leaf Carving Artists In China Branching Out Into Pop Culture". Huffington Post. Retrieved May 30, 2016.
  9. ^ XII.3.
  10. ^ XXIV.29
  11. ^ XII.5
  12. ^ "[9]". Official Website of Jammu & Kashmir Tourism. May 19, 2020.
  13. ^ Kaul, Prof Upendra (2023-08-23). "Chinar: The Heritage Tree of Kashmir". Greater Kashmir. Retrieved 2024-09-04.
  14. ^ Lone, Abdul Rashid. "Prehistoric Archaeology of Kashmir: An Overview". Sahapedia.
  15. ^ Wanchoo, Pran Nath (2001–2002). "Chinar Tree, "Bouin" of Kashmir- Symbol of Goddess Bhawani". Vitasta. XXXV. Archived from the original on 2006-12-05.
  16. ^ Rajesh Bhat (2007-12-24). "627-year-old living legend found in Kashmir". Merinews.com.
  17. ^ Mooney-Singh, Chris (2014). "Pantun of the Chinar Grove (Sri Nagar, Kashmir)". Manoa. 26 (1): 68–69. doi:10.1353/man.2014.0024. ISSN 1527-943X. S2CID 143772200.
  18. ^ "Symbol of Paradise". Daily Pioneer. 16 June 2013.
  19. ^ "Climate". Official Website of Anantag District. Archived from the original on 2009-03-13.
  20. ^ "Ban on cutting Chinar trees in Kashmir". The Times of India. 5 March 2009. Archived from the original on 24 October 2012.
  21. ^ "Where Do Chinar Trees Grow In India". India Gardening. 2019-10-25. Retrieved 2020-01-27.
  22. ^ "Nasim Bagh". www.gardenvisit.com. Retrieved 2020-10-21.
  23. ^ "Corsham Court Oriental plane 'most spreading tree in UK'". BBC News. 2011-07-06. Retrieved 2011-07-06.
  24. ^ "Oriental plane in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England, United Kingdom". monumentaltrees.com. Retrieved 7 September 2018.
  25. ^ "Pococke Garden". Christ Church. Retrieved 23 August 2022.
  26. ^ "Christ Church College's Hidden Gardens". OX Magazine. Retrieved 23 August 2022.
  27. ^ "National Identity Elements - States Ut Symbol G L". Know India. Archived from the original on September 8, 2017.
  28. ^ "Alice in Gardenland". The Gardens Trust blog. The Gardens Trust. 20 March 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2022.
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