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.

Map

Please see the map below for tree locations and routes around the park. Click to enlarge the map. 

Map of Trees

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