Other Names:  European Linden, Lime, European Lime

Description:

A large and imposing tree with an oval to pyramidal habit that broadens with age, fragrant flowers appear in early summer and attract bees; a sizeable long-lived tree, best for larger properties and parks, needs lots of room to grow

Ornamental Features

Common Linden is primarily valued in the landscape for its decidedly oval form. It features subtle clusters of fragrant yellow flowers with tan bracts hanging below the branches in early summer. It has dark green deciduous foliage. The heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall.

Landscape Attributes

Common Linden is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting bees to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Insects

Common Linden is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade

Planting & Growing

Common Linden will grow to be about 80 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. It has a high canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 100 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This particular variety is an interspecific hybrid.