Featured Tree

Silver Linden: The Shimmering Tree

Meet the silver linden, a stately shade tree whose shimmering two-toned leaves and fragrant summer blooms make it a standout in any landscape.

June 21, 2016

A large silver linden tree with a dense, rounded canopy of green leaves standing in an open grassy field under a clear blue sky.

First introduced to the U.S. in 1767, the Silver Linden is a great city tree because of its resistance to pests and durability in urban conditions. It reaches up to 70 feet, making it an ideal shade tree for commercial areas and large yards.

Tilia tomentosa

It’s also a good option for replacing ash trees lost to emerald ash borer. From a distance, the leaves’ silver undersides give the illusion of a two-toned tree, making it more unique in appearance.

Additionally, the small fragrant leaves on the Silver Linden attract bees, making it a great option if you’re looking for pollinator options. The honey of linden trees is said to be rich and buttery.

Here are a few things to note before planting one in your yard.

Environmental Conditions

Does well in multiple soils including clay, loamy, moist, sandy and well drained, and is drought tolerant (hardiness zones 4-7).
Medium growing tree, growing up to two feet a year and reaching 50-70 feet at maturity.
Does best in full sun, with at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.

Physical Attributes