Small-Leaved Lime

Botanical Name: Tilia cordata

Common Name: Small-Leaved Lime

Native to Europe and Britain. Otherwise known as the Small-leaved Linden. 5000 years ago was the dominant tree in NW European lowland "Wildwood" The leaves are small triangular-ovate in shape.Valuable timber - white or yellow wood. Once seasoned does not warp or change dimensions. Often used for keys and sounding boards on pianos and organs.

Origins
  • Tilia cordata is native to much of Europe, extending from the British Isles in the west to Russia in the east.
  • It typically grows in a variety of habitats, including mixed deciduous forests and along riverbanks.
Historical Use
  • The wood of Tilia cordata has been historically valued for its fine grain and was used for carving, especially in the creation of religious sculptures and intricate woodwork.
  • The inner bark of the tree was traditionally used for making fiber.
Cultural Significance
  • Linden trees, including Tilia cordata, hold cultural significance in European folklore and traditions.
  • They are often associated with symbolism of love, peace, and protection, and linden flowers have been used to make herbal teas.
Avenue Plantings and Landscaping
  • In various European countries, Tilia cordata has been planted along avenues and in urban areas for its aesthetic qualities, providing shade and contributing to the character of streets and squares.
  • The tree's dense foliage and fragrant flowers make it a popular choice in landscaping.
Habitat and Ecology
  • Tilia cordata is well-adapted to temperate climates and plays a role in supporting biodiversity in European ecosystems.
  • It attracts pollinators, and its seeds are a food source for birds and small mammals.

The small-leaved lime has a rich history intertwined with European culture, from its historical uses in craftsmanship to its symbolic value in folklore and its continued role in urban and natural landscapes.

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