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/]

Additional Information