Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata (small-leaved linden) is a very valuable ornamental deciduous and melliferous tree, frequently used in alignments, parks and large gardens.

 General characteristics

• Family: Malvaceae (formerly Tiliaceae)

• Type: large deciduous tree

• Height at maturity: 20–30 m (sometimes more)

• Crown: wide, dense, pyramidal when young, then rounded

• Longevity: may exceed 300–500 years

 Leaves

• small, cordiform (heart shaped)

• dark green on the front, lighter on the back

• autumn takes on shades golden yellow

 Flowers

• appear in June–July

• small, yellow-cream, very perfumed

• grouped in inflorescences with bracts

• extremely honeydew – one of the most important sources of nectar for bees

 Fruits

• small, round nuts

• ripens in autumn

• they have no particular decorative value, but are specific to the species

 Growing conditions

• Exposure: sun or partial shade

• Soil: fertile, deep, well drained

• Resistance: very good in cold, wind and urban pollution

• Watering: moderate; tolerates short periods of drought well after installation

 Maintenance

• requires few interventions

• withstand training cuts

• very resistant to diseases and pests

 Uses

• street alignments

• parks, public gardens

• large gardens, urban green spaces

• tree symbolic and traditional in Central and Eastern Europe