American Basswood
Tilia americana
Overview
Valued native shade tree known for its fragrant flowers that attract bees. Basswood honey is prized for its light, delicate flavor.
Indigenous peoples used the fibrous inner bark for cordage and the wood for carving. 'Basswood' derives from 'bast wood' referring to the inner bark fibers.
Identification
Leaves
Large heart-shaped leaves with an asymmetrical base and coarsely toothed margins. Dark green above, paler below. Among the largest leaves of any native tree.
Bark
Develops distinctive long, narrow furrows with flat-topped ridges on mature trees.
Flowers
Extremely fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers in drooping clusters attached to a distinctive leafy bract. Major nectar source for bees.
Fruit
Small, hard nutlets attached to a leafy bract that acts as a wing for wind dispersal.
🦆 Valuable wildlife food source
Growing Conditions
Climate
Well-suited to Eastern Ontario's moist, fertile soils. Prefers cooler conditions and adequate moisture.
Hardiness Zones: 3, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b
Light Requirements
Soil
Moisture: moist
Drainage: well-drained, moderate
pH Range: 5.5 - 7.5
Tolerance
Care & Maintenance
Pruning
Best Season: Winter
Frequency: As needed for structure
- Prune in late winter when dormant
- Remove basal sprouts regularly if single-stem form desired
- Watch for and remove epicormic sprouts on trunk
Avoid: Spring and summer - sap flows heavily
Watering
Establishment: Regular deep watering for first 2-3 years
Mature: Supplement during drought
Seasonal Care Timeline
Spring
- Watch for late frost damage to early growth
- Aphids may appear on new growth
Summer
- Peak flowering in early July - attracts many bees
- Japanese beetles most active
- Monitor for drought stress
Fall
- Leaves turn yellow before dropping
- Remove fallen leaves if heavily infested
Winter
- Generally problem-free
- Heavy snow can cause branch breakage
Common Issues
Japanese Beetles
ModerateBeetles that skeletonize leaves
Symptoms: Skeletonized leaves, Brown, lace-like leaf remnants
Treatment: Hand-picking, insecticidal soap, neem oil
Prevention: Treat lawn for grubs, pheromone traps (use with caution)
Aphids
LowSap-sucking insects that produce honeydew
Symptoms: Sticky honeydew on leaves and surfaces below, Sooty mold, Curled leaves
Treatment: Strong water spray, insecticidal soap
Prevention: Encourage natural predators
Quick Facts
When to Call an Arborist
Recommended inspection: Every 2-3 years
- •Major branch dieback
- •Extensive sucker growth indicating stress
- •Fungal fruiting bodies on trunk
- •Significant lean
Free consultation for Belleville residents
Recommended Services
Based on American Basswood characteristics