American Linden

Tilia americana

The American linden, also known as “basswood,” is a stately shade tree with delicate pea-shaped fruits hanging from wing-shaped bracts. It is a summer-blooming tree with small white flowers, and bold, heart-shaped leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn. Linden trees line Embassy Row on Massachusetts Avenue – DC’s historic linden corridor.

Size and Light Requirements

The American linden will reach approximately 50 feet in about 50 years. Lindens do well in sun or partial shade.

Plant This Tree

This tree is available through our residential planting program, RiverSmart Homes. You can also get up to $100 back for planting this tree yourself through our tree rebate program.

Find Another Tree

All the trees in this guide have been selected by Casey Trees and are well adapted to the soil and conditions present in Washington, DC.

Photo Credits

Martin LaBar, MONGO, Virens , Plant Image Library, Martin LaBar