This North American tree, commonly known for its thick coverage and heart shaped leaves is beloved by arborists across the country. Every year, the American Linden produces sweet, fragrant flowers that grow in clusters down long branches. These yellow-white blooms are attractive to pollinators and people alike. Linden bark acts as an excellent fibrous material along with soft wood that is easily malleable. This, in conjunction with its expansive, almost puffy, shape, make the American Linden especially vulnerable in high winds. This tree can be most easily identified by looking for its wide reaching foliage and unique leaf shape. The leaves of this tree are slightly asymmetrical, meaning it is not the same on each side of the stem.
Foliage
Please note the rise on the left side of this leaf - this is intentional! The leaves on this tree do not perfectly mirror on both sides, and are a great indicator that the tree you see is a Linden and not a similar species. These leaves come to a sharp tip with bright veins that branch out from the stem toward this point.
Seeds or Cones
The small white flowers of the American Linden eventually turn to bulbous seed pods, one forming at the end of each stem. They remain a bright green while forming, but turn brown and brittle when dry. Pictured is the green version, having not yet reached its final form.
All illustrations by A.S. Longman
Did you know?
The man known as “the father of modern taxonomy”, Carl Linnaeus, was named for the Linden, or Lind which also means “lime tree” in Swedish.
Download your own QR code here! On a phone, tap and hold to save. On a computer, right click. See the "make a sign" page for detailed instructions on how to make your own sign, and access additional tools!