Contents
Description
Tilia Americana, also known as American Linden or Basswood, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the Tilia genus and is a member of the Malvaceae family. This tree can grow up to 80 feet tall and has a broad, round canopy. The bark is gray and smooth when young but becomes rough and furrowed as the tree ages. The leaves are heart-shaped and have serrated edges, with a glossy green surface on top and a pale underside. In the summer, the tree produces clusters of fragrant, yellow-white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by small, nut-like fruits that are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Tilia |
Appearance
Tilia Americana is a large, deciduous tree with a broad, round canopy. The bark is gray and smooth when young but becomes rough and furrowed as the tree ages. The leaves are heart-shaped and have serrated edges, with a glossy green surface on top and a pale underside. In the summer, the tree produces clusters of fragrant, yellow-white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by small, nut-like fruits that are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Care Guide
Tilia Americana requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree should be fertilized each spring with a balanced fertilizer. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. This tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tilia Americana is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also prone to leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Tilia Americana is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and urban parks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the height of Tilia Americana?
A: Tilia Americana can grow up to 80 feet tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tilia Americana?
A: Tilia Americana is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Q: What pests are Tilia Americana susceptible to?
A: Tilia Americana is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.
Q: What is the bloom season for Tilia Americana?
A: Tilia Americana blooms in the summer, producing clusters of fragrant, yellow-white flowers.
Related Plants
- Tilia Cordata (Little-leaf Linden)
- Tilia Europaea (Common Linden)
- Tilia Tomentosa (Silver Linden)
References
- “Tilia americana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282468&isprofile=0&basic=Tilia%20americana>.
- “Tilia americana.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TIAM>.
- “American Basswood.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=831>.
