Small-Leaved Lime

(Tilia cordata)

Small-Leaved Lime (Tilia cordata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Tilia cordata, commonly known as Small-leaved Lime or Small-leaved Linden, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including broadleaf temperate forests, forest edges, and riparian zones across much of Europe. Its range extends from Britain through mainland Europe to the Caucasus and western Asia. This species typically reaches a height of 100 feet (30 meters) and a width of 35-50 feet (10-15 meters). The Small-leaved Lime is notable for its dense, heart-shaped foliage and its pyramidal to rounded form. It produces fragrant, cream to yellow flowers in early to mid-summer, which are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

The Small-leaved Lime is valued for its dense canopy, providing excellent shade, and its ornamental qualities, including its symmetrical shape. It is commonly used in urban environments as a street tree and in parks and gardens for its aesthetic appeal. This tree prefers full sun to part shade and adapts well to a range of soil conditions, provided they are well-drained. It requires moderate watering and is relatively low-maintenance once established. While it is not typically invasive, it can spread in some non-native areas, so gardeners should consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 50-70 feet
  • Width: 35-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Broadleaf temperate forests, forest edges, and riparian zones across much of Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Small-Leaved Lime, Linden, Small-Leaf European Linden, Small-Leaf Lime, Small-Leaf Linden, Little-Leaved Linden, Small-Leaved European Linden, Small-Leaved Linden, Småbladet Lind, Winterlinde

Scientific Names: , Tilia cordata, Tilia ulmifolia, Tilia parvifolia, Tilia sylvestris, Tilia microphylla, Tilia latebracteata, Tilia hoffmanniana, Tilia silvestris, Tilia betulifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Tilia cordata Mill.