The tree is an Oriental Plane (Platanus orientalis), a species less common in Europe than the hybrid London Plane.
Local records often estimate the age of the tree to be approximately 200 to 300 years old.
Its trunk circumference is so large that it typically requires five or more adults to join hands to encircle it.
The tree is officially listed in the 'Alberi Monumentali d'Italia' (Monumental Trees of Italy) registry managed by the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies.
It is a solitary specimen, thriving in the microclimate created by the proximity to the Toscolano stream.
The Platano monumentale, locally known as 'Piantù', is an ancient Platanus orientalis tree located in the Toscolano Maderno region of Lake Garda. It is recognized as a monumental tree by Italian forestry authorities due to its significant age and biological rarity. The tree features a massive trunk with a circumference exceeding 8 meters, suggesting it is several centuries old. It stands within a public green space near the Valle delle Cartiere. The site functions as a protected botanical landmark rather than a standard park, focusing on the preservation of this specific specimen. The surrounding area remains largely underdeveloped to protect the tree's complex root system.
Position yourself on the opposite side of the small path or bridge to capture the full height and scale of the trunk.
Bring a wide-angle lens, as the tree is extremely large and difficult to frame from close range.
Visit during a weekday to avoid crowds, as the space surrounding the tree is relatively compact.
Combine the visit with a hike into the nearby Valle delle Cartiere for a full morning excursion.
Do not climb on the tree or enter restricted areas marked by fencing, as these are in place to prevent soil compaction around the roots.
