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Platanus orientalis (Platanaceae)

According to a legend, this gigantic tree was planted by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1799, after the battle of Marengo. The impressive Old World sycamore is probably what’s left of an avenue full of similar trees which connects the city centre to Marengo.

Also known as the Old World sycamore of Alessandria, this tree has not been growing in an ideal position: in fact, it is now adjacent to a road guard rail, constantly threatened by traffic and pollution. The road is actually the very popular route from Alessandria to Spinetta Marengo.

This specimen, about 200 years old, has a circumference of 26.2 ft and is divided into four main branches at some 6.5 ft from the ground.
Each year, it grows some wondrous green foliage that can reach the height of 131ft.

Unfortunately, the abovementioned location makes it difficult to reach, photograph and admire in all its incredible and monumental beauty.

How to get there:

The majestic Old World sycamore is located at km.1 of the state road from Alessandria to Marengo.

Botanical Card

This species is native to the eastern Mediterranean, western Asia, and Afghanistan.
In Italy, it spontaneously grows in Sicily and the southern part of the peninsula.

The Old World sycamore is a heliophilic species, it prefers fresh, fertile soils of alluvial origin.

It is mainly used as decoration for roads and avenues, as it comes with a very strong and large taproot capable of firmly supporting the whole plant.

Photo source: http://alessandrialisondria.altervista.org/il-platano-di-napoleone/

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)