Tilia x europaea, common lime, European lime or linden, is a deciduous tree, native to the UK. It's a naturally occurring hybrid between the small-leafed lime (Tilia cordata) and large-leafed lime (Tilia platyphyllos) but is rarely found growing in the wild as both parent species need to be present in the same area. Common lime was previously widely planted in Britain and Europe to form lime avenues and can often be found growing in parks and parkland.
Tilia x europaea is a fast growing tree with a broad crown. It has fresh green, heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow before falling in autumn. Clusters of white and pale yellow flowers are produced in summer. After pollination, these become small, knobbly fruits.
It's a very good tree for wildlife. The leaves are eaten by the caterpillars of many moths and are very attractive to aphids – and therefore their predators, which include hoverflies, ladybirds and birds. The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees. Bees and ants also feed on the honeydew secreted by the aphids.
It's a tough tree that will thrive on most soils, including those that are wet over winter. Avoid windy or exposed sites. Remove the shoots that appear from the base of the tree – they will weaken the main tree and do not look attractive. Before planting, read our advice on planting trees.
Tilia x europaea is too big for most gardens and is better suited to parkland. However pleached trees are available – stilted trees that can be planted along a boundary and make good screening trees. It's best to avoid planting these near cars or garden furniture, as the sticky honeydew secreted by visiting aphids can be frustrating. Common lime can be grown as a hedge and is also suitable for pollarding, which keeps the tree more compact.
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Advice on buying Tilia x europaea
Make sure you have enough space to grow common lime – it can reach heights of 35m x 15m after 50 years
Tilia x europaea can also be grown as a pleached or stilted tree – a better option for a smaller garden
You're likely to find Tilia x europaea at a specialist tree nursery or online. Always buy trees from a reputable supplier that sells British-grown or certified disease-free stock, to guarantee against pests and diseases
Look out for bare root plants that can be bought and planted in the dormant season – these are usually cheaper
Tilia ‘Europaea’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It is a caterpillar food plant and has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
