American Linden
Tilia americana

Height: 60-80´
Habit: : rounded-pyramidal

Landscape Value:

The American linden is a relatively fast-growing shade tree and transplants easily. It adapts to a variety of soil and moisture conditions. There are drawbacks to the tree. It is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, some of which can be serious. Pollution can affect the American linden, and coupled with its large size, it does not serve an average city lawn very well. Parks, golf courses, and wet areas are good locations for American lindens. Many other species of lindens are better suited for the typical lawn landscape.

Seasonal Characteristics:

• Summer: The American linden has small, yellow flowers in June that are not noticeable but have a pleasant fragrance. It is an adequate shade tree with the attractive, heart-shaped leaves typical of lindens.
  
  
• Fall: The leaves may turn a pale yellow at best and usually are yellow-green or sometimes brown. Most lindens do not exhibit good fall color, although varieties with better fall color are available.
  

Points of Interest:

Bees use the fragrant flowers to make what some consider to be the very best honey. Native Americans used the tough, fibrous bark to make rope and fish nets. Tea was made to treat lung disorders and upset stomachs, but it has now been determined the tea can cause heart problems if used over an extended period. The wood is useful for small articles not requiring strength or durability and where ease of working is wanted. It is especially valuable for carving, being white, close-grained, and smooth and admitting great sharpness in minute details. The wood is used to make furniture, panels, and crates. The American linden is susceptible to ice and wind damage as the tree matures. Basswood is another common name for this tree.

Native Range:

Illinois, northeastern North America.

American Linden Link