Tilia americana ~ Basswood, Linden Tree

Basswood is a tall native deciduous tree with an ovate-rounded crown and noticeable winter buds.  The large serrated foliage with paler undersides turn a pale yellow in fall.  Fragrant clusters of pale yellow flowers bloom in late spring and give way to papery wing-like seed pods that mature mid-summer.   Grows best with loamy, moist well-drained soils.  Generally intolerant of air pollution. In addition to being highly attractive to bees, Tilia americana is a host plant for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Red-Spotted Purple, and Mourning Cloak butterflies. Type:  Tree Origins: Northeast N. America  Height:  50’ - 80’ Spread:  30’ - 50’ Spacing:  40’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  2 - 8 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  Yellow Season of Interest: Spring, Fall MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance.  No serious pests or diseases.  Though uncommon, if Verticillium wilt occurs it can be fatal.  Potential diseases include powdery mildew,