TILIA AMERICANA / BASSWOOD

TILIA AMERICANA / AMERICAN LINDEN

A Native Tree with Fragrant Flowers and Shade-Tolerant Growth

Tilia americana, commonly known as American Linden or Basswood, is a native deciduous tree valued for its fragrant yellow flowers, dense green foliage, and rapid growth. Thriving in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soils, American Linden is ideal for shade trees, naturalized landscapes, and wildlife gardens. Its large size, fragrant blooms, and ecological benefits make it a standout native tree.

Why Choose American Linden?

Fragrant Flowers: Yellow, nectar-rich blooms attract bees and pollinators in early summer.
Wildlife Friendly: Flowers support pollinators, and seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Shade Tolerant: Performs well in both full sun and partial shade.
Low Maintenance & Hardy: Resilient and long-lived in a variety of soil conditions.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Medium to dark green leaves; yellow in fall.
Flower Color: Yellow, fragrant flowers in early summer.
Fruit: Small nutlets in late summer to fall.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 50–80 feet tall and 40–60 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates loam, clay, or sandy soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 50–80 feet tall, 40–60 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, broad-rounded deciduous tree.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering/Fruiting: Flowers in early summer; nutlets in late summer to fall.
Fall Interest: Leaves turn yellow, providing seasonal color.

Ideal Uses:

Shade & Street Trees: Provides large canopy and shade in parks and landscapes.
Pollinator Gardens: Flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects.
Wildlife Plantings: Supports birds, pollinators, and small mammals.
Naturalized Landscapes: Works well in native woodlands and large garden settings.

American Linden is a majestic, ecologically valuable native tree. Its fragrant flowers, shade tolerance, and wildlife benefits make it an excellent choice for naturalized landscapes, large gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings.