Tilia cordata | Small-leaved Lime

A medium to large deciduous tree native to UK and Europe. As one of the oldest trees in the UK, the Tilia cordata is an ancient 'woodland indicator' species. This tree usually has a spreading, rounded crown, although because it is seed raised, the crown can vary. Heart-shaped leaves are a glossy, dark green and paler underneath. They are 8cm long, have a pointed tip and are hairless, apart from the rusty-red hairs where the leaf stalk attaches to the twig. Clusters of creamy-white fragrant flowers appear in late summer, attracting insects, especially bees. Lime trees are a great pollinator that provides habitat and food for a wide range of wildlife. The cultivar Tilia cordata 'Greenspire' has more upright branches and is narrower than the Tilia cordata.

Mature Height

20m+

Tree Features

One of UK's oldest, native trees.

Smooth, grey-brown bark becomes fissured as it matures.

Glossy, green heart-shaped leaves.

Growing Conditions

Suitable for most well-drained soil, and tolerant of drought.

Good for urban sites.

Season of Interest

Summer - Clusters of small, fragrant flowers attracting wildlife.

Autumn - Heart-shaped flowers turn yellow.

Tree Type

Standard, Pleached, Box head

Growing Locations

Parklands, Avenues, Gardens, Urban environments. Tilia cordata 'Greenspire' and Tilia cordata 'Streetwise' are more suitable for avenues and street planting due to their more uniform appearance.

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

Limes trees were once planted along roads by royal decree for good luck at harvest time. Lime wood is good to work with and is used in turnery, carving and furniture making, also used for sounding boards and piano keys as it does not warp. Lime bark was traditionally used to make rope.