Tilia tomentosa Seeds | Silver Linden
LATIN NAME: Tilia tomentosa
COMMON NAME: Silver Linden
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Silver Linden (Tilia tomentosa) stands out as a deciduous tree in the mallow family. Flowers fill air with sweet scent for bees, and tree grows into stately, regular form. It stands heat, drought and city air well. It likes sun, and deep, moist, well-drained soil. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
Botanists studying the mallow family regularly include Tilia tomentosa in comparative work, and the species also appears in horticultural trials aimed at gardeners and growers. White-felted leaf undersides of silver linden hold a long place in research on stately street trees of mallow family, and species appears in studies of urban heat and drought tolerance and nectar chemistry. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
Silver Linden brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. In avenue, park and large garden, silver linden perfumes summer air with cream flowers. Silver-flashing crown turns in breeze, flowers feed bees and make celebrated honey, flower tea has served traditional drinks for generations, and timber serves carving and the joinery. It thrives in deep, moist, well-drained, sunny ground. 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 Silver Linden under ordinary good conditions. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Being a deciduous tree, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Part of this plant’s appeal is the long practical history summarized above. Sun, free drainage and a patient first year are all it really requires.
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