Tilia spp
Common landscape species are native to Europe and eastern North America, but many more species native to Asia. American linden (T. Americana), little leaf linden (T. cordata), and big leaf linden (T. platyphyllos) are most commonly found in landscapes. Also called ‘basswood’ and in the UK commonly called ‘lime’, although it is not related to the fruit. The soft wood is highly valued for artistic carving.
- Culture
- Concerns
- Management
Culture for Linden
Performs best on moist but well drained, high organic matter soils with pH near neutral. Full sun to part shade. Flowers are fragrant and attractive to pollinators, though reportedly toxic to some bee species.
Concerns about Linden
Aphids are a major problem as they produce copious honeydew which leads to sooty mold. Where they occur, Japanese beetle feeding damage is common. Several defoliating caterpillars also feed on linden foliage. Leaf spindle galls caused by eriophyid mites are common. Soft scale and cottony scale insects may infest linden. Anthracnose, leaf spot, and powdery mildew fungi are known to occur but are not incredibly common.
Management Practices for Linden
Fertilize according to nutrient analysis. Treat aphids, scales, Japanese beetles, or foliar feeding caterpillars as required based on inspection. In disease prone areas, preventative fungicide applications will manage leaf spots and powdery mildew infections. NOTE: restrictions exist for treating lindens with several common systemic insecticides. Management of low level aphid infestations may be achieved via biological control release (Aphidoletes).
Photos related to Linden
Leaves and fruit / flower bracts
Japanese beetle feeding
Cottony scale insects on linden foliage