European Lime

(Tilia ×europaea)

European Lime (Tilia ×europaea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Tilia ×europaea, commonly known as the European lime or common linden, is a hybrid between Tilia cordata (small-leaved lime) and Tilia platyphyllos (large-leaved lime), naturally occurring in a variety of habitats across Europe, including deciduous forests, forest edges, and riparian zones. This large deciduous tree can grow up to 164 feet (50 meters) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 8 feet (2.4 meters), often featuring a broad crown with dense foliage, burrs, and brushwood. The heart-shaped leaves are dark green, turning yellow in autumn. In early summer, it produces clusters of highly fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

The European lime is valued for its stately form, fragrant flowers, and the dense shade it provides. It is widely cultivated in urban areas, parks, and large gardens, often used for avenue planting due to its tolerance of pruning and pollution. The tree prefers moist, fertile soils with good drainage and thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can host heavy aphid populations, which result in sticky honeydew deposits beneath the tree. The leaves are edible raw, and the blossoms are traditionally used to make a soothing tea with mild relaxant properties. Some cultivars, such as ’Pallida,’ are popular for their uniform shape and vigorous growth. Potential problems include susceptibility to linden borer and leaf spot diseases. It is also important to be aware of the potential for large root systems that can disrupt pavements and structures.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 50-130 feet
  • Width: 50-70 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid, Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Deciduous forests, forest edges, and riparian zones across Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Large-Leaved Lime , European Linden

Scientific Names: Tilia ×europaea , Tilia cordata f. vulgaris , Tilia cordata subsp. vulgaris , Tilia cordata × platyphyllos , Tilia europaea var. hollandica , Tilia europaea var. hollandica , Tilia grandifolia f. praestabilis , Tilia grandifolia f. praestabilis , Tilia parvifolia subsp. vulgaris , Tilia parvifolia var. intermedia

GBIF Accepted Name: