American Linden (Tilia americana)

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates some drought. Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained loams. American linden or American basswood is noted for its fragrant pale yellow flowers in late spring, small nutlets with attached leafy wings and large ovate dark green leaves (to 6Ó long) with acuminate tips, serrate margins and uneven cordate bases. It is native to a variety of habitats, including dry upland areas as well as moist, low woods. When a tree is in full bloom, bees often visit in such abundant numbers that humming can be heard many feet from the tree. Honey made from these flowers is a prized gourmet food item. Flowers have also been used to make tea.

NATIVE RANGE

Map courtesy of USDA-NRCS Plants Database.