Tilia cordata Seeds | Small-leaved Lime
LATIN NAME: Tilia cordata
COMMON NAME: Small-leaved Lime
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata) stands out as a tree in the mallow family. Small-leaved lime drones tall, rounded crown with dense, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of pale, honey-scented flowers that open in early summer, the whole tree carrying the calm, generous look of the lindens. Bees work flowers from dawn to dusk, and sweet scent drifts through warm air. It likes sun or part shade, and deep, moist, well-drained soil. The ratio of effort to reward here is about as good as gardening gets.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Tilia cordata ranges from the botany of the mallow family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. In mallow family, lindens have a long, calm record in street-tree research, and small-leaved lime appears in studies of nectar chemistry and urban tolerance. Little about its garden performance is mysterious; it has been grown and observed for a very long time.
Uses & Benefits
Small-leaved Lime brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. In avenue, park and garden, small-leaved lime shades summer streets. Heart-shaped leaves and honey-scented blossom give calm, generous crown, flowers make famous lime blossom tea, and bees turn them into fine honey. Soft, pale wood serves carving, boxes and musical instruments. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Linden flower tea is Europe’s beloved calming, sweat-inducing cold remedy, gentle enough for children; the tree also gives the world’s finest carving wood and exceptional honey.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Small-leaved Lime under ordinary good conditions. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in partial shade with steady moisture. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Small-leaved Lime is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Once the young plants are away, there is little left to do but watch them grow.
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