Linden

Tilia

There are two desirable species of  linden tree in the Front Range: American Linden and Littleleaf Linden. Linden trees are medium growing and oval-shaped that can reach heights of 50-100′ by 40′ with dark green foliage changing to yellow prior to leaf drop. They prefer moist soil, but are moderately drought tolerant and do well in most soils. Fragrant and pretty yellow flowers bloom in the spring that attract heavy honeybee populations. They are not salt tolerant and show 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 issue of linden 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. Please see “Aphids” entry under the “Tree Problems” tab for more info.

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.