Tilia americana, or basswood, is native to Ontario with a natural range extending from southeastern Manitoba and New Brunswick, south to northeastern Oklahoma, and east to New Jersey. It prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade, but can tolerate some drought. Typically not as tolerant to air pollution, this tree species is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions that makes it ideal for residential/gentle urban landscapes. Tilia americana drops a significant number of leaves in the fall and small fragrant flowers in the summer.
Susceptible to storm breakage May sucker from trunk base
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
Width
9 - 15m
Height
17 - 24m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Deciduous
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. Verticillium wilt can be an issue, which can cause branch/ limb death and severe cases can cause tree mortality.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Sensitive
Salt Spray Tolerance
Sensitive
Flooding Tolerance
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)