Tilia americana
American Basswood, American Linden
General
A shapely and stately tree, commonly planted along streets and in landscaping. Their wood is light and easy to work, and is frequently used to make such items as yardsticks, crates, and musical instrument parts. The creamy yellow flowers are inconspicuous but extremely sweetly fragrant and strongly attract bees.
Plant Description
A large, attractive tree with simple, oval, serrated leaves, almost as wide as they are long. The flowers and fruit descend from a leafy bract, about 2-4” long, an elongated oval in shape. Flowers are yellow and inconspicuous.
Height (ft)
60-100
Spread (ft)
30-50
Soil moisture
Moist, Slightly dry
Soil types
Moist, rich, well-drained soils
Wetland indicator
FACU
Shade tolerance
Moderate
Bloom color
Pale Yellow
Bloom period
Spring
Fall conspicuous
Yes
Anaerobic tolerance
None
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
None
Self-Pollinating?
Yes
Range
Found throughout all of the New England and Mid-Atlantic states, south to South Carolina, and west to Nebraska.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]