A natural hybrid Tilia x europaea is widely used as a street tree, also well suited for use in parks and larger gardens.
Rounded lime green heart shaped leaves, creamy white flowers that attract bees and a hardy nature make Tilia x europaea a useful tree for a range of situations.
Also known as ‘Linden Tree’ and ‘Kaiser Tree’ it is widely grown throughout Europe as well as Australia. Regarded as tolerant of air pollution as well as being an attractive street tree it also attracts bees when in flower.
Reaching around 25m in height depending on conditions Tilia x europaea is not suited for planting in small spaces or underneath power lines. Deciduous, frost tolerant and good in windy conditions it does make a good shade tree for larger gardens, parks and broader landscaping situations.
With good autumn colour as the foliage turns from green to orange and yellow, Tilia x europaea was widely planted in gardens across Victoria and New South Wales in the early 1900s by landscapers including William Guilfoyle. Many are still in excellent condition 100 years later.
Summary
- Position – Full sun
- Soil – Humus rich and well drained.
- Height Will reach 25 – 30 metres.
- Spread will form a crown to 15 metres
- Growth Rate – Regarded as having a medium growth rate.
- Foliage – Lime green and heart shaped (deciduous)
- Bark – Thick and fibrous.
- Flowers – Yellow in spring, fragrant and attractive to bees. Dried flowers are used ti make a herbal tea.
- Tolerance – Will grow well in urban situations and tolerates pollution.
Tilia x europaea Care
A humus rich well drained soil in a position sheltered from strong winds is best. Little to no pruning is required other than removal of damaged branches. Tilia x europaea is regarded as reasonably drought tolerant once established.
