Species
Plane tree pollen allergy: season, symptoms and exposure
The London plane (Platanus × hispanica) is among the most common street trees in Barcelona and Madrid and a leading cause of spring pollinosis. Its abundant, allergenic pollen is released during a short but intense window in March and April.
Why it is such an important urban allergen
A tree's impact depends on both pollen potency and how common the tree is. Plane trees combine the two. The map shows where they are concentrated in your city.
Common symptoms
- Rhinitis: sneezing, congestion and a runny nose.
- Conjunctivitis: red, watery and itchy eyes.
- Dry cough and, for people with asthma, breathing difficulty.
- Fatigue and headaches caused by persistent congestion.
Symptoms are often worse on dry, windy days that keep pollen airborne, and ease after rainfall.
How to reduce exposure
- Check the level before going out and limit outdoor time during peaks.
- On intense days, wear a mask and sunglasses; ventilate after rain or at night.
- Avoid streets with dense plane tree planting during March and April when possible.
- Shower and change clothes when you get home.
Explore plane trees in Polen-tracker
Open the plane tree profile to see its phenology and presence, or check the pollen calendar to compare it with other trees in season.
Try it with your city
Polen-tracker is free, requires no account and works on mobile. Open the map or calendar and filter by the trees that affect you.