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Description
Tilia Cordata, also known as the Littleleaf Linden, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Tiliaceae family. This tree is native to Europe and Asia and can grow up to 20-40 meters in height. Tilia Cordata is recognized for its heart-shaped leaves, fragrant flowers, and edible small fruits. Moreover, this tree has been widely used for medicinal purposes, including treating colds, coughs, and fever.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Tiliaceae |
| Genus | Tilia |
Appearance
Tilia Cordata has a pyramidal shape with a broad, spreading crown. The bark is grayish and smooth when young, and it becomes darker and furrowed with age. The leaves are heart-shaped, dark green, and glossy on the upper surface, while the underside is paler. The tree produces fragrant, yellowish-white flowers in early summer that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers give way to small, nut-like fruits that are edible and utilized in various culinary dishes.
Care Guide
Tilia Cordata is relatively easy to care for and maintain. Here is a brief care guide to help you grow this tree successfully:- Water: Tilia Cordata prefers moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Tilia Cordata grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral pH level.- Sunlight: This tree thrives in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Tilia Cordata is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tilia Cordata is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect this tree:- Aphids: These tiny, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of aphids.- Scale insects: These pests look like small, brown or white bumps on the leaves and stems. They suck the sap from the tree, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control scale insects.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can cause leaf drop and weaken the tree. Use fungicides or remove infected leaves to manage powdery mildew.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves, which can turn yellow or brown. Use fungicides or remove infected leaves to control leaf spot.
Habitat
Tilia Cordata is native to Europe and Asia and grows well in temperate climates. It prefers well-draining, fertile soil and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. This tree is commonly found in parks, gardens, and along city streets due to its attractive appearance, fragrant flowers, and tolerance to pollution.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tilia Cordata safe for pets?
A: Yes, Tilia Cordata is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Q: How long does it take Tilia Cordata to grow?
A: Tilia Cordata can grow up to 2-3 feet per year and reach maturity in 20-30 years.
Q: Can Tilia Cordata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Tilia Cordata can be grown in large containers, but it may not reach its full growth potential.
Q: Can Tilia Cordata be used for woodworking?
A: Yes, Tilia Cordata wood is soft and lightweight, making it ideal for carving and making furniture.
Related Plants
– Tilia Americana (American Linden)- Tilia Platyphyllos (Large-leaved Linden)- Tilia Tomentosa (Silver Linden)- Tilia Euchlora (Crimean Linden)
References
– “Tilia Cordata – Littleleaf Linden.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a896.- “Littleleaf Linden.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/littleleaf-linden.
