Large-leaved lime

Tree Information
 
Tree Information  
Latin Name Tilia platyphyllos
Order Malvaceae
Family Tilioideae
Common Name Large-leaved lime
Other Names Broad-leaved lime, large-leaved linden
Native Range Central and southern Europe
Supported Wildlife Bee pasture for beekeeping
Uses Tea, traditional medicne
Year Planted Before 1952
Location 47°41'06.2"N 8°40'37.1"E

About this tree

Tilia platyphyllos, or large-leaved lime, is another species of lime tree native to Europe. It is distinguished by its larger leaves compared to the small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata). This tree typically reaches 20–30 m in height and is found in a variety of habitats, including mixed woodlands and along roadsides. Its broad, heart-shaped leaves are pale green and turn a golden yellow in the autumn. The tree flowers in late spring or early summer, producing large clusters of fragrant yellow flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. T. platyphyllos prefers moist, fertile soils and is tolerant of a variety of environmental conditions, making it a popular tree for urban parks and gardens. The flowers and leaves of the tree have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional remedies for stress and insomnia. It provides shelter for various birds and insects, and its dense foliage creates an important microhabitat for many species. Large-leaved lime is often used in large-scale landscape plantings. Linden trees have also been traditional markers of public spaces (judicial courts, central squares) in Europe and incorporated into outdoor dance floors and platforms as so-called “Tanzlinden”.