Centenary Tree of Plaça de la Palla

This example of an oriental plane tree, locally known as the centenary tree, is found in the town of Ibi, in the Valencia region of Spain. The trunk of the tree is mostly devoid of bark, as metal rods and wires support the tree, not at all surprising considering it’s around 300-years-old. At one time there were three large plane trees in the square but the other two were removed in the early 20th century.

The tree still provides shade for locals to escape the heat or a spot to enjoy local artisan ice cream. The leaves, flowers, fruit, and bark are believed to have multiple medicinal uses, that include treating frostbite.

Planes are often propagated by cuttings and this tree has been the “parent” of most of the plane trees around the town.