deciduous tree
American Linden: pruning, storm risk and removal
Tilia americana. Also called Basswood, American Basswood.
Plain-English notes for homeowners, plus field notes for tree crews. General guidance only: for one specific tree, have a local insured pro look at it.
American Linden at a glance
| Height | 50-80 ft |
|---|---|
| Spread | 30-50 ft |
| Growth rate | Medium |
| USDA zones | 3-8 |
| Lifespan | 100-150 years |
| Type | Deciduous |
| Native range | Eastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to the Appalachians and west to the Great Plains. |
| Roots | Fibrous and fairly shallow, spreading wide. The tree is known for sprouting from the base, especially after cutting. |
| Wood | Soft, light and easy to work. It is popular for carving but not a good firewood. |
| Storm risk | mediumThe wood is soft and the crown is dense. Trees with included bark or old wounds can drop limbs in ice, snow or wind. Healthy, well-structured trees often do fine. |
Typical ranges, not guarantees. Soil, water, space and care change how a tree grows. Storm risk is our general rating for the species, not an inspection.
For homeowners
Caring for a american linden
Best time to prune
Prune in late winter to early spring while the tree is dormant. Young trees benefit from structural pruning to build a strong central leader.
Avoid pruning
Avoid heavy pruning and avoid topping, which leads to a mass of weak sprouts.
More on timing: when to prune trees.
- Plan for sticky honeydew on cars and patios if aphids are active under the tree.
- Japanese beetles often feed on linden leaves in summer. Healthy trees usually tolerate it.
- The summer flowers are very fragrant and attract bees.
- Water deeply during long dry spells, especially for young trees.
Safety first
Do not climb a tree or use a chainsaw on storm-loaded or broken wood. If a tree or limb is touching power lines, stay away and call the utility. If someone is in danger, call 911. For anything big, hire a local insured pro: read how to hire a tree service and is my tree dangerous?
Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
For tree crews
Field notes: working on american linden
- 1Look for decay at old pruning cuts and at the base. Soft wood can hide hollows.
- 2Basal sprouts can hide the trunk base. Clear them before assessing the root flare.
- 3Check for girdling roots on trees planted too deep.
- 4Soft wood sections can be heavier than expected when wet. Rig with care.
Removal notes
Stems are often multi-trunked or have sprouts at the base. Stump and root sprouts are common, so stump grinding and follow-up are often needed. Soft wood chips and splits easily.
Wood
Soft, light and easy to work. It is popular for carving but not a good firewood.
Pricing this job? Try the tree job estimator. Follow your own safety plan and crew training on every job.
Common problems for american linden
Pests and diseases to watch for. Each link explains signs and what to do.
Where american linden grows
Native range: Eastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to the Appalachians and west to the Great Plains.
Common in these US regions. Tap one to see other trees there.
Free tools for this tree
They run in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere. Results are estimates.
American Linden: common questions
What is the difference between a linden and a basswood?
American linden and basswood are common names for the same tree, Tilia americana. In the U.S. you will hear both.
Why is my linden dripping sticky sap?
That is usually honeydew from aphids feeding on the leaves. It is messy on cars and patios but often not a serious threat to a healthy tree.
Why does my linden have so many sprouts at the base?
Linden naturally sprouts from the base and roots. You can cut them off while they are small. Frequent sprouting can also be a sign of stress.
How big does an American linden get?
Typically 50 to 80 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide. It is a large shade tree and needs space.
Is an American linden good for bees?
Yes. The fragrant early summer flowers are a well-known source of nectar for bees.
When should I prune a linden?
Late winter or early spring before leaf-out is typically best. Keep cuts small and avoid heavy removal.
More trees in the same regions
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