Tilia platyphyllos – Large leaved Lime

Long established in Ireland, Tilia platyphyllos is a medium-sized, long-lived, deciduous tree with a dense rounded habit and a rather narrow crown. The bark is darker than that of small-leaved lime, and new twigs are a duller colour; nor does it produce twiggy growth at the base of the trunk. The deep-green leaves are heart-shaped, with felted undersides are up to 5”/12cm long. The flowers are hermaphrodite, greenish-yellow and wonderfully scented, very valuable to honey-bees; as well as honey, a delicious, relaxing tisane can be made from them. A handsome, shade-tolerant, specimen tree, but be aware that aphids love it too, so it is wise to plant the broad-leaved lime where it won’t drip honey-dew onto anything underneath.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Light, well drained soils, preferably alkaline or neutral
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring to autumn
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: up to 80’ (24m)  Spread: 60’ (18m)