American Linden (Basswood)

General
Scientific Name: Tilia American Linden (Basswood) americana
Family: Malvaceae (Mallow)
Hardiness: Zone 2
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: >45’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No

Ornamental
Flowers: Yellow to white
Fruit: Tan nutlet
Fall Color: Yellow

A medium to large tree native east of the Missouri River in North Dakota. Desirable as a landscape tree for its large stature, shade and aromatic flowers. Fruit with attached pale-green bract, gives tree a two-tone appearance in late summer. The largest tree in North Dakota is 75 feet tall with a canopy spread of 64 feet.

Light: Full sun or partial shade.
Water: Prefers moist soils
Soil: Tolerates a wide variety including heavier soils and is pH tolerant.

A handsome native tree, but it is too large for small locations. Well suited for open spaces. Another common name for American linden is basswood.

Many cultivars are available in the nursery trade.

The name “basswood” refers to bastwood or the tough inner bark (bast) that was used to make ropes.

The wood is often used in furniture and wooden ware, and is prized by wood carvers.