American Linden (Tilia americana)

Categories: Bird Habitat | Drought Tolerant | Dry Site | Large-Sized Trees | Mesic Site | Pollination | Wildlife American Linden, also known as American Basswood, is a stately native shade tree prized for its fragrant flowers, exceptional pollinator value, and dense cooling canopy. Growing 50–80 feet tall with a spread of 30–50 feet, it develops a broad oval crown that makes an outstanding shade tree for parks, large residential landscapes, and naturalized settings. In late spring to early summer, American Linden produces clusters of fragrant, pale yellow flowers that are among the most important nectar sources for native bees and honeybees. When the tree is in full bloom, the abundance of pollinators often creates an audible hum beneath the canopy. The flowers are also prized for producing flavorful honey and have traditionally been used to make herbal tea. Large, heart-shaped, dark green leaves provide dense summer shade before turning soft yellow-green in fall. Following flowering, the tree produces small nutlets attached to leafy bracts that help disperse seeds by wind. American Linden naturally grows in a variety of habitats, from rich woodlands and stream corridors to upland forests. It performs best in moist, fertile, well-drained soils, but once established, it can tolerate periods of drought and adapts well to a variety of landscape conditions. Beyond its ornamental beauty, American Linden is an important native tree that supports pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, making it an excellent choice for ecologically diverse landscapes.   NATIVE RANGE Map courtesy of USDA-NRCS Plants Database.