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Nature

Linden Tree

What is linden tree?

· Emily Grant

Key facts

Genus Tilia[1]
Family Malvaceae[1]
Growth form deciduous tree[2]
Leaf shape heart-shaped (cordate)[5]
Flowers small fragrant yellowish flowers[4]
Common names lime, basswood[3]

A linden tree is a deciduous tree of the genus *Tilia* in the mallow family, known for heart-shaped leaves and fragrant flowers, also called lime or basswood.

Context

A linden tree is a tree of the genus *Tilia* in the mallow family, known for its deciduous growth, heart-shaped leaves, and fragrant flowers [1]. It is also called lime or basswood in different regions, and it is commonly planted as an ornamental or shade tree [3]. The genus includes about 30 species native to the Northern Hemisphere [3]. Its light, fine-grained wood is used as basswood [1].

Documented claims

  • The linden tree is commonly planted as an ornamental or shade tree. [1]
  • The genus *Tilia* contains about 30 species native to the Northern Hemisphere. [3]
  • The wood of the linden tree is light and fine-grained, often called basswood. [1]

Related

Maple TreeBoth are common deciduous trees with similar uses and cultural significance.Beech TreeBoth are common deciduous trees with similar uses and cultural significance.Ash TreeBoth are common deciduous trees with similar uses and cultural significance.

Questions and answers

What is special about a linden tree?

Linden trees are known for their heart-shaped leaves and small, fragrant yellowish flowers, which make them popular as ornamental and shade trees [5].

What is a linden tree called in English?

In English, the same genus is commonly called linden or basswood in North America, and lime in Britain and Europe [3].

Are linden trees native to Canada?

Linden trees are native to the Northern Hemisphere, which includes parts of Canada, though specific native ranges vary by species [3].

Sources

  1. Linden Tree | Natick, MA - Official Website — natickma.gov (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. LINDEN Definition & Meaning — merriam-webster.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. Linden tree - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms — vocabulary.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  4. LINDEN definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary — collinsdictionary.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  5. linden noun - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage ... — oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Nature