tree

Large-leaved Linden

Tilia platyphyllos

The Story

Plant Bio

Tilia platyphyllos, known as the large-leaved linden, is a massive deciduous tree native to Europe that develops a dense, rounded canopy and a strong central leader when young. The broad, dark green leaves feature soft, pale undersides with distinct tufts of brownish hairs in the vein axils, turning a fresh light green as they emerge in spring.

This species is distinguished from the similar Tilia cordata by its larger foliage, hairy twigs, and downy leaf undersides. In late spring and early summer, it produces small clusters of yellowish-white flowers suspended from pale green, leaf-like bracts that release a sweet fragrance.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a grand, stately presence with a dense, symmetrical canopy and fragrant late-spring blooms.

Functions as an excellent large shade tree for parks, historic estates, and expansive lawns.

Extremely attractive to honeybees and native generalist pollinators; seeds provide food for small birds and mammals.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

1181"

Width

984"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Europe, Caucasus

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with fertile, moist, and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the root flare sits level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with native soil, tamp down gently to remove air pockets, and water deeply to settle the root system.
Apply a three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Avoid planting this tree directly over driveways, patios, or permanent parking areas, as peak aphid populations will shower the space below with a heavy, sticky layer of honeydew.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water young trees regularly during dry spells to establish a deep, resilient root system.
Prune strictly in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant to remove crossing or dead branches.
Protect young trunks with physical guards to prevent damage from browsing deer and rabbits.

Don't

Do not prune aggressively into old, thick, leafless wood unless you are intentionally pollarding the tree from a young age.
Do not plant in poorly drained, heavy soils where water pools for extended periods.
Do not over-fertilize; apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring only if growth is sluggish.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade TreeSpecimen PlantingAvenue LiningWindbreak

Companion Plants

Acer saccharum Quercus rubra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Large-leaved Linden questions

What zones can Large-leaved Linden grow in?

Large-leaved Linden is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Large-leaved Linden deer resistant?

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

When does Large-leaved Linden bloom?

Large-leaved Linden typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Large-leaved Linden need full sun?

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

Is Large-leaved Linden drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Large-leaved Linden handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.