treeN. America Native

American Linden

Tilia americana

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Over 100 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

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 heart-shaped leaves, dense canopy, and fragrant, pale yellow flowers in early summer. The species is highly valued for its fragrant flowers, which are a major nectar source for honeybees, producing a prized honey. Its soft, easily worked wood, known as basswood, is favored by woodcarvers.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

As a large shade tree, the American Linden provides a grand, formal presence in parks and large landscapes. Its heart-shaped leaves create a dense, cooling canopy, and its fragrant summer flowers are a delightful sensory addition.

The strong yet soft wood, known as basswood, is highly prized for carving, model building, and musical instruments. The tree's dense shade can significantly reduce cooling costs for nearby buildings. The inner bark, or bast, can be used to make rope and fiber.

The flowers are an exceptionally important nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The tree provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, and its seeds are eaten by small mammals. It is a host plant for the larvae of several moth species.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole with the original soil, gently tamping it down.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture during the first few years to establish a deep, healthy root system for this large tree.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
Prune in late winter to maintain a strong structure.
Allow ample space for its large mature size.
Monitor for pests like Japanese beetles in early summer.

Don't

Do not plant in compacted or poorly drained soils.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot.
Do not over-fertilize; it is generally not necessary.
Avoid major pruning in spring when sap is flowing.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately shade tree for large lawnsClassic street tree for wide avenuesKey species in naturalized woodland areas

Companion Plants

Acer saccharum Fagus grandifolia Quercus rubra Asimina triloba Lindera benzoin

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

American Linden questions

What zones can American Linden grow in?

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 American Linden deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse American Linden, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does American Linden bloom?

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 American Linden need full sun?

American Linden does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.