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Tree Guide

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Silver LindenTilia tomentosa

  • Silver Linden - Tilia tomentosa
Beautiful shade tree with light gray, smooth bark and leaves that are a dark, radiant green on top, shimmering silver beneath. Extremely fragrant clusters of yellow-white flowers bloom in late June to early July. Pollution tolerant. Likes moist, well-drained alkaline soil and full sun. Grows 50 to 70' with a 25 to 35' spread. (Zones 4-7)

Hardiness Zones

The silver linden can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 4–7. View Map

Tree Type

Mature Size

The silver linden grows to a height of 50–70' and a spread of 25–35' at maturity.

Growth Speed Medium Growth Rate

This tree grows at a medium rate, with height increases of 13–24" per year.

Sun Preference

Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, meaning it should get at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.

Soil Preference

The silver linden is very versatile—growing in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. While it prefers moist conditions, the tree has moderate drought tolerance.

Attributes

This tree:
  • Features simple, alternating leaves that are 4–8" long.
  • Produces yellow-white flowers with a pleasant fragrance from late June to early July.
  • Serves as a great source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators
  • Offers great shade due to a dense crown.
  • Tolerates pollution.
  • Yields tan-colored, oval fruit ⅓" in diameter.
  • Grows in an oval shape.

Wildlife Value

Silver linden flowers are highly attractive to bees.

History/Lore

A native of Europe and western Asia, the Silver Linden was introduced to America in 1767. In France, the blossoms of the Linden tree are used to make a popular tea known as "Tilleul."