Leppä

Leppä is the Finnish common name for the linden tree, a group of deciduous trees in the genus Tilia. In Finland, leppä most often refers to the lindens that are widely planted in parks and streets, particularly Tilia cordata (small-leaved lime) and Tilia platyphyllos (large-leaved lime). The trees are valued for their rounded crowns, heart-shaped leaves, and fragrant summer flowers.

Linden trees are native to much of Europe and western Asia. In Finland, they are primarily found in cultivation rather than as native woodland species, with extensive plantings in urban environments. They prefer sunny to lightly shaded sites and well-drained soil.

The flowers of the leppä are nectar-rich and attract bees, making Linden honey a traditional product in many parts of Europe. The wood of lime trees is light in color and relatively soft, historically used for carving, musical instruments, and general woodworking. The tree also features in folklore and cultural traditions across Europe, where it is often associated with calm and protection.

In addition to its ornamental and practical uses, leppä appears in Finnish literature and everyday speech as a symbol of shade, shelter, and natural beauty. The term can also appear in botanical or horticultural contexts to distinguish lime trees from other broadleaf species, though regional usage may vary.