The plane tree, a symbol of blessing

The plane tree, or platanus, has wide jagged leaves with five pointed lobes that resemble the palm of an open hand.
As a matter of fact, the name “platanus” means wide and flat.
Foglie platano
Its resemblance to the palm of a hand made this plant sacred to Mother Earth, as shown by some Cretan sculptural depictions where the Goddess has her hand open in the act of blessing.