American Basswood

American Basswood

(Tilia Americana)

This tree can be found in Butternut Park, right along the trail going around the lake. It will be along the small ridge, after the bridge going across the connected stream.

American Basswood grow in temperate deciduous forests alongside other species. They are smaller trees, so they'll make up the understory in climax communities. They need plenty of sun and prefer moist but well-drained soil. They'll grow commonly along lakes and streams, but they're along planted commonly in parks and neighborhoods.

They are very pretty trees with large, dark green heart-shaped leaves. They also have small, delicate yellow flowers that hang down in clusters. They serve as a great food source for jays and other songbirds. Their bark is also cool, with deep furrows and flat ridges.