Tilia tomentosa (Silver Linden)

Michael's Opinion

Of European origin T. tomentosa can reach a height of 20 m or more and is best suited to park and commercial use where its full somewhat pyramidal form is appreciated. T. tomentosa has a distinct silvery underside to its leaves, hence its name. It is not a very tolerant urban species and can suffer from aphid infestations and leaf gall problems, which almost all Tilia are prone to in our Ontario climate.

Botanical Information

FamilyMalvaceae (Tiliaceae)
GenusTilia
Speciestomentosa
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone4 - 7
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone3
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height20 m
Spread18 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodMay

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionUnpalatable to many insects, attracts few honey bees and many aborted fruit.
ID CharacteristicGrowth habit produces a neat, trim appearance. Dark green leaves have an attractive silver undersurface.
ShapeBroadly pyramidal.
Colour DescriptionFoliage is dark green with a yellow colour in autumn.

Photographs