Tilia americana

Identifying Features

American basswood is a medium sized tree, growing up to 80 feet tall.

The bark of this tree is gray, tough, and has shallow grooves.

Its leaves are alternate and simple, between 3-10 inches long. They are heart-shaped with an uneven base, and toothed. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow.

Habitat & Range

Basswood grows in damp forests throughout the eastern half of the United States.

Life Cycle

American basswoods flower from June to August. Their flowers are yellow and fragarant.

The fruit of this tree is a 1/2" long nut, clustered under leafy wings.

Featured image by James Dake.