Little-leaf Linden, Small-leaved Lime, Pry
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Malvales, Family: Malvaceae, Genus: Tilia, Species: Tilia cordata · Malvaceae (Mallow family), formerly Tiliaceae (Linden family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Tilia cordata
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Malvaceae (Mallow family), formerly Tiliaceae (Linden family)
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an asymmetrical base and an acuminate (pointed) tip
Size
Approximately 2 to 4 inches long and wide; this specimen appears to be around 3 inches, which is within the typical range for the species.
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed) with sharp, small teeth along the entire edge
Arrangement
Alternate, occurring on a slender petiole (leaf stalk)
Rarity
Very Common; frequently used in landscaping and forestry throughout the Northern Hemisphere.
Color & Pattern
Dark green on the upper surface with a slightly paler matte green underneath. No variegation present. In autumn, these turn a uniform yellow.
Venation Pattern
Palmate-pinnate; major veins radiate from the base with prominent secondary veins creating a net-like structure.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) on the upper surface; the underside typically features small tufts of brown hairs in the axils of the veins.
Description
A medium to large deciduous tree known for its dense, pyramidal crown when young, becoming more rounded with age. It features dark, furrowed bark and fragrant, pale-yellow flowers in summer that attract bees. The heart-shaped leaves are a signature characteristic of the linden genus.
Key Features
Heart-shaped leaf with an asymmetrical (lop-sided) base, sharply serrated margins, and a long, slender petiole.
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests, limestone-rich soils, and widely planted in urban parks and streets due to pollution tolerance.
Geographic Range
Native to much of Europe and western Asia; widely naturalized and planted in North America and temperate regions worldwide.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy with minimal insect damage or disease. The color is deep green, suggesting it was collected during peak growing season. Overall health grade: Excellent.
Interesting Facts
The flowers are used to make 'Linden tea' or 'Tilleul', which is widely consumed in Europe. Linden trees are also known as 'Bee Trees' because they are a major source of honey production.
Medicinal & Uses
Flowers are used in herbal medicine for sedative and antispasmodic effects. The wood (basswood) is highly prized by woodcarvers for its soft, even grain and light color.
Ecological Role
Provides a critical nectar source for honeybees and bumblebees. Acts as a host plant for several species of moth larvae.
Similar Species
Tilia platyphyllos (Large-leaved Lime) has larger leaves and hairs over the entire underside; Tilia americana (American Basswood) has much larger leaves (4-10 inches).
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinct heart-shaped leaves in early summer. When the tree is in bloom, the scent is sweet and overpowering, which is the best way to locate them from a distance.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans and common pets. In rare cases, frequent consumption of flower tea may be linked to heart damage, but it is generally considered safe.