American Linden (Tilia americana)

A medium growing oval shaped tree reaching heights of 50-100’X40’ with dark green foliage changing to yellow prior to leaf drop. Prefers moist soil but is moderately drought tolerant and does well in most soils. Fragrant and pretty yellow flowers in the spring that attract heavy Honeybee populations. Not salt tolerant and shows heat stress readily with scorched leaves.

Common Problems:

Environmental:

Almost always grows multiple trunks and v-shaped branch unions. A fairly flexible wood but structural pruning is still recommended to help avoid later branch and limb failures. A poor choice for parking lot islands and anywhere radiant heat is abundant.

Diseases:

Powdery mildew and leaf spot can occur.

Pests:

Aphids are the largest pest population and most common problem on these trees. They have little long term effect on the trees but they secrete honeydew which is sweet and sticky covering any surface underneath the canopy. Sooty mold (a black chalky dust) then grows on the honeydew making the area unsightly and dirty to the touch.

Cultivars:

Several available.

History and Use:

Also known as "Basswood" it is used in model building and for wood carving because of its lightweight and consistent grain.