Species

Tilia tomentosaSilver Linden

2 other cultivars

tree

Silver Linden

Tilia tomentosa 'Brabant'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tilia tomentosa, commonly known as silver linden, is a deciduous tree native to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia that develops a uniform, broadly conical crown. The leaves are dark green above with a dense, felted silvery-white underside that shimmers in the wind.

'Brabant' is selected for its strong central leader, highly symmetrical upright structure, and exceptional resistance to aphids. This cultivar remains free of the sticky honeydew deposits that typically plague other lindens, keeping the foliage clean throughout the season.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a striking visual contrast when wind exposes the silvery-white leaf undersides against the dark green upper surfaces.

Offers excellent tolerance to urban pollution, wind, and heat, making it a highly resilient street and shade tree.

Serves as an invaluable nectar source for honeybees and native generalist pollinators during mid-summer.

SpeciesTilia tomentosaSilver Linden

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

984"

Width

590"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with deep, 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 lightly to remove air pockets, and water deeply to settle the ground.
Apply a three-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk bark.
Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.

Pro Tip

Remove root suckers manually from the base of the trunk as soon as they appear to maintain a clean single-stemmed form and prevent energy diversion from the main canopy.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune lightly during winter dormancy to establish a strong central leader.
Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot from waterlogging.
Monitor for basswood lace bugs and spider mites during hot, dry summer spells.

Don't

Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood, as regrowth will be slow and patchy.
Avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to standing water or prolonged waterlogging.
Do not apply nitrogen-heavy fertilizers unless a soil test indicates a specific deficiency.

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

Street TreeShade TreeSpecimen PlantingUrban Parklands

Companion Plants

Hosta Heuchera Carex Vinca minor

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Silver Linden questions

What zones can Silver Linden grow in?

Silver 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.

When does Silver Linden bloom?

Silver Linden typically blooms in summer through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Silver Linden need full sun?

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

Is Silver Linden drought tolerant?

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