Also known as American Basswood · American Lime · American Lime Tree
Basswood (Tilia americana) is a large deciduous tree native to eastern North America, prized for its fragrant flowers and soft wood. It provides shade and habitat.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth but tolerates some shade.
Moderate to High
50% intensity
Consistent moisture, especially when young or during drought.
Well-drained, moist
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, USDA zones 3-8.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize in spring if growth is slow; mature trees rarely need it.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Aim for consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Deep watering encourages a strong root system.
Reduce watering frequency as the tree matures and becomes more drought-tolerant.
Prune to establish a strong central leader and well-spaced branches. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Winter is the best time for structural pruning.
Light pruning can be done to shape the tree and improve air circulation.
Basswood can be propagated from seed, which requires a period of stratification. Softwood cuttings taken in early summer can also be rooted under mist. Hardwood cuttings taken in late fall may also be successful.
Young basswood trees in containers benefit from repotting every 2-3 years to replenish soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Mature trees are rarely repotted as they are typically planted in the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Basswood (Tilia americana)
Where Basswood (Tilia americana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Tilia |
| Species | Tilia americana |
Similar in genus Tilia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
