Tilia platyphyllos | Large – leaved Lime

The Tilia platyphyllos is native to most of Europe. This is a large, deciduous tree with a dense and broadly pyramidal habit. Similar to the Tilia cordata, except the heart-shaped leaves emerge earlier and are bigger - up to 6-12cm long. The leaves have sharply serrated edges and a pointed tip. The underneath is light green and covered in fine hairs. In autumn the leaves yellow and fall early. Clusters of yellow-white-green aromatic flowers attract bees and other pollinators June to July. However, this tree is prone to aphids leaving anything underneath the tree covered in sweet and sticky honeydew. The Tilia cordata is a hardy tree that grows in most soil, including clay. It responds well to pruning and pollarding, and will tolerate urban conditions. The Tilia platyphyllos is a great avenue and parkland tree, planted along the driveways of many stately homes.