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Large Leaved Lime (Tilia platyphyllos)

Linden, Broad Leaved Lime (family - Tiliaceae)

Description: Large deciduous tree rare and restricted in habitats. Height 32m

Where found: Woods. Natural distribution in woods by River Wye, Teme and Severn and in South Yorkshire. Not native to Ireland but throughout France, Central Europe and Asia Minor.

Phenology:

Flowers Leaves Fruit Ripen Fall
June April/May      

Similar species: Common Lime is a hybrid of Tilia cordata and T. platyphyllos

Uses past & present: Relatively soft white or yellow wood, valuable timber. Does not change dimensions or warp once seasoned. Uses of wood - Good for carving and making small articles and model making. Bark has strong fibre (bast) and once used for ropes. Food and drink - Sugar can be made from sap and beekeepers regard as a good source of nectar. On continent flowers dried to make tea.

Propagation and Growth: Deeply dormant seed. Treat as Acer campestre but start treatment approx 12 months before planting. Approx 6000 seeds per kg.
 


image of a Large leaved Lime leaf. WTPL/Peter Paice

Large leaved Lime leaf

image of a Lime bud in April (Common Lime)

Lime bud in April (Common Lime)