Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Tilia americana, commonly known as American Basswood or American Linden, is a stately, deciduous tree that can grow up to 120 feet tall with a trunk diameter reaching up to 4 feet. The tree has a domed crown with spreading, often pendulous branches and is known for its gray to light brown bark with narrow, well-defined fissures. The heart-shaped, dark green leaves can grow up to 8 inches and turn yellow in fall. The tree produces small, fragrant, yellowish-white flowers that attract bees, making it a favorite for honey production. American Basswood prefers rich soil but can grow in dry areas, making it commercially important in its native range across North America. Its soft, light wood is excellent for making woodenware such as spoons, cheap furniture, and pulp. Moreover, American Basswood is used as an ornamental tree and is also edible, with the flowers and leaves being used as food and the flowers producing mild and spicy honey. The tree is commonly cultivated and recommended for landscaping purposes, and its wood is also used in guitars due to its light weight, strength, and resonance. Additionally, Tilia americana is used for medicinal purposes, with the dried flowers and fruit being used as a tea due to their sweet, sticky taste and health benefits like acting as antioxidants and having mucilaginous properties.