Origin
Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. is a deciduous tree species endemic to North America. It is commonly found in the eastern and central regions of the continent, ranging from Florida north to Quebec and west to North Dakota. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soils and can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and stream banks.
Common Names
The Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. is known by several common names including American basswood, American linden, whitewood, linn, and bee-tree. The tree's name is derived from its use as a source of bee forage, as its flowers produce a fragrant, nectar-rich honey favored by beekeepers.
Uses
The Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. tree has many practical uses. Historically, Native Americans used the bark to make clothing, baskets, and cordage, while early settlers used it for canoes, roofing shingles, and furniture. Its wood is still prized today for carving and construction because it is lightweight, soft, and easy to work with.
Additionally, the tree has medicinal properties. Its flowers, leaves, and bark contain chemicals that possess anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. As a result, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including headache, fever, and anxiety.
General Appearance
Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. is a tall, stately tree that can grow up to 35 meters in height and 2 meters in diameter. Its smooth, greyish-brown bark is marked with shallow fissures and ridges. The tree's leaves are broad, heart-shaped, and asymmetrical, with serrated edges and a glossy green surface. Its flowers are small, cream-colored, and arranged in fragrant clusters that attract bees and other pollinators. The tree produces small, round fruits that contain seeds encased in papery wing-like structures, which are dispersed by wind.
Light Requirements
Tilia Americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. typically requires full sun to partial shade to grow. The plant can tolerate shade but may not flower as profusely in shade as in full sun. If planted in an area with very intense sunlight, some shade protection would be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
The plant generally prefers temperate climates. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -29 Celsius or -20 degrees Fahrenheit and resist wind and ice damage.
Soil Requirements
Tilia Americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. requires well-draining, moist, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. However, the plant is generally very adaptable and will grow well in a wide range of soil types and pH levels. Having neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for growth. Additionally, it can even tolerate soils that are sandy, loamy, or clay-based soils.
Cultivation Methods
Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is commonly known as white basswood or American linden. It is native to North America and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
Sow the seeds in spring or fall directly into the soil. If you are using saplings for plantation, do it in the spring when the last frost has passed. The ideal depth for planting is about four inches. Water the newly planted seedlings regularly to prevent the soil from drying out before the roots establish themselves in the soil.
Watering Needs
White basswood trees require consistent moisture to thrive. The tree can withstand short periods of drought, but it is recommended to water moderately throughout the growing season. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other issues. The best way to monitor water needs is to check the soil moisture, that is, the top inch of soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
White basswood needs fertilization during its initial years of growth. Fertilize the soil with a balanced fertilizer during spring, before the tree's leaves appear. It is best to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packet as per the tree's age and size. Repeat fertilization every year until the tree is mature enough and does not require additional support.
Pruning
White basswood trees do not require regular pruning. However, it is essential to prune any damaged, broken, or diseased branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before the tree begins to leaf out. This is also the best time to shape the tree and remove any unwanted branches that could hinder growth.
Propagation of Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud.
Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. can be propagated using various methods including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and cutting propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. can be collected and directly sown into the soil during the fall season. The seeds should be moist stratified for about 60-90 days before sowing. Sowing depth should be shallow, and the soil should be moist and well-drained. Germination of the seeds can take up to 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be protected from direct exposure to sunlight.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. can be done using root cuttings. The cuttings are taken during the dormant season, and they should be about 10-15 cm long and 0.5 to 1 cm in diameter. The cuttings are then planted in the soil, and the soil should be kept moist and well-drained. The roots will start to grow from the bottom part of the cutting, and new shoots will grow from the top part of the cutting.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation of Tilia americana L. var. heterophylla (Vent.) Loud. can be done using softwood cuttings or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken during the growing season, and they should be about 7-10 cm long. Hardwood cuttings are taken during the dormant season, and they should be about 10-15 cm long. The cuttings are then planted in the soil, and the soil should be kept moist and well-drained. The cuttings will develop roots, and new shoots will grow from the top of the cutting.
Disease Management
Tilia americana var. heterophylla is generally considered to be a relatively low-maintenance plant in terms of disease management. However, some fungal diseases can potentially affect the plant.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause spotting or discoloration on the leaves of the Tilia americana var. heterophylla. Management of this disease includes cleaning up and disposing of infected leaves, pruning branches that are infected, and applying fungicides as needed.
Canker: Canker is another fungal disease that can potentially affect Tilia americana var. heterophylla. Symptoms include sunken, discolored areas on the bark and branches. To manage canker, remove infected branches, sterilize all pruning tools, and apply fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
There are also a variety of pests that can potentially affect the Tilia americana var. heterophylla. The following are some common pests to watch out for:
Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Management of aphids include the use of insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and introducing natural predator insects into the area.
Cottony Maple Scale: This pest can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and twig dieback. To manage this pest, it's important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, prune off infested branches, and apply insecticides if necessary.
Japanese Beetle: These beetles can defoliate trees and shrubs, including the Tilia americana var. heterophylla. Management includes handpicking the beetles, pruning off infested branches, and using insecticides as necessary.
