Littleleaf Linden
Littleleaf linden is a European relative of American basswood (Tilia americana) that is widely planted in the United States. Leaves are simple, alternate, and dark green. They are smaller than the leaves of American basswood, but are also heart-shaped with finely toothed margins. Flowers are very similar to American basswood, with clusters of 5-11 small, yellow-green blooms and similar colored bracts. Female flowers develop into winged nutlets that fall from the tree midsummer.
Honey bees are very attracted to littleleaf linden flowers, and linden honey can be high value. The wood is soft and not often used for lumber, but sometimes for drawer sides in inexpensive furniture. The species can handle heavy pruning, and is therefore sometimes grown as a hedge. It can also be espaliered in Europe, or used in bonsai. It is relatively resistant to urban pressures, and is therefore a very popular street tree. The Unter den Linden, a major boulevard in central Berlin, for example, is lined with littleleaf lindens. Recent research however suggests that weak root systems in heavily disturbed urban areas contributes to high urban mortality of the species.
The little leaf linden tree is more than just a pretty addition to your garden. With its stunning heart-shaped leaves and sweet-smelling flowers it brings beauty and life to any space. Whether you’re looking to provide shade or attract pollinators this tree has you covered.
Sources
https://campustrees.umn.edu/
https://treefluent.com/what-
https://greencoverinitiative.
https://www.thespruce.com/
