Linden

Linden, also known as lime in parts of the United Kingdom and basswood in North America, refers to trees of the genus Tilia in the family Malvaceae. Native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, lindens are valued for their shade, fragrant flowers, and timber. The name lime is unrelated to the citrus fruit.

In Europe, the most common species are Tilia cordata (small-leaved linden) and Tilia platyphyllos (large-leaved linden), with hybrids such as Tilia × europaea widely planted as ornamentals. In North America, native Tilia americana (American basswood) is widespread, and cultivated forms are also grown.

Linden trees are deciduous, typically broad-canopied, with heart-shaped, serrated leaves. They produce fragrant, pale yellow to white flowers in dense clusters from late spring to early summer; the flowers are highly attractive to pollinators. The fruit is a small nut enclosed by a winged bract.

Uses include timber that is light, soft, and easy to work, making it valued for carving, turnery, and parts of musical instruments. The nectar-rich flowers yield linden honey. Linden flowers and leaves are used in herbal teas and traditional remedies in some cultures.

Cultivation and culture: Linden are widely planted as urban street trees and in parks, tolerating urban pollution and providing good shade. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, and trees can live for many decades or longer.

Cultural significance: In many European cultures the linden is a symbol of community and peace; many towns feature a central linden in town squares, and the tree appears in folklore and songs.