American Basswood
Tilia americana · Malvaceae (Mallow family, formerly placed in Tiliaceae)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Broadly cordate (heart-shaped) to ovate with a markedly asymmetrical base
Margin
Serrate with prominent, sharp, pointed teeth along the entire edge
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem, with a slender, long petiole
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent main veins radiating outward and a distinctly asymmetrical leaf base where the veins meet the petiole unequally
Key Features
Distinguished by large, heart-shaped leaves with sharply toothed margins and a very lopsided (asymmetrical) base where the blade attaches to the stem, as well as the unique leafy bracts associated with its seed clusters
Description
The American Basswood is a magnificent, large deciduous tree known for its straight trunk, dense pyramidal to rounded crown, and deeply furrowed gray bark. It produces fragrant yellowish-white flowers in drooping clusters that attract swarms of bees, followed by small, hard, nut-like fruits attached to a leafy bract.
Habitat
Rich, moist deciduous forest soils, lower slopes, and ravines with good drainage; prefers partial to full sun exposure
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada down through the eastern and Midwestern United States to northeastern Texas