How to identify a linden tree

Tree Profiles > How to identify a linden tree

How do you identify a linden tree?

Wondering if you are looking at a linden tree? Your clues are their leaves, buds, flowers and seeds. Here’s what they look like at-a-glance:

Hello! In today’s guide we are going to learn how to identify a linden tree. Are you ready? Let’s get started! Here are a few linden facts:

Linden trees can grow up to 20 meters tall, live more than 200 years and can be found growing in gardens, parks and city streets.

Linden leaves are asymmetrical, heart shaped and toothed.

Their buds are alternate, deep red and only have 2-3 scales.

The flowers are small, yellowish-green and grow in small, downwards-hanging clusters.

Linden seeds are small, round, yellowy-green, grow in clusters of 1-4 and have a membranous wing on their stalk.

Linden leaf

Hazel leaf

Hazel leaves look similar to linde, but are wider at the tip and narrower (and more symmetrical) at the base.

Medicinal – Linden is traditionally used for anixety, stress, fever and hypertension.
Bushcraft – Linden flowers make a delicious tea and fibres from the bark can be used for rope-making.
Dyeing – The flowers yield a peachy, apricot colour.
Wildlife – Linden is a valuable food source for bees.