
Sentry American Linden
Tilia americana 'Sentry'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
540 inches
Width
300 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Tilia americana, or American Linden, is a large, stately deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves and fragrant, pale yellow flowers that hang from leaf-like bracts. 'Sentry' is a cultivar selected for its distinctly upright, pyramidal, and narrow form, making it much more suitable for street plantings and smaller landscapes than the wide-spreading species. It has a strong central leader.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location in full sun with deep, moist, well-drained soil.
- Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Set the tree so its root flare is at or just above ground level.
- Backfill with the excavated soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets.
- Water deeply immediately after planting.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Prune to maintain a single central leader when young to ensure the development of its strong, desirable pyramidal form.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system.
- Prune in late winter to remove any crossing or dead branches.
- Tolerate the presence of aphids, as they are a minor issue.
Don't
- Don't plant in very dry or compacted soils.
- Avoid excessive pruning, which can spoil its natural form.
- Don't plant where dripping honeydew from aphids will be a problem.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sentry American Linden questions
What zones can Sentry American Linden grow in?
Sentry American Linden is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Sentry American Linden deer resistant?
Yes — Sentry American Linden is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Sentry American Linden bloom?
Sentry American Linden typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sentry American Linden need full sun?
Sentry American Linden does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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