Basswood (Tilia americana)

Basswood is a desirable ornamental tree known for its fast growth and longevity. It occurs from the most northern to the most southern portions of the eastern United States and as far west as North Dakota and southward. Basswood can grow in sites ranging from nutrient poor, rocky ridges as high as 4,900 ft elevation to well-drained low woodlands.

Bees are especially attracted to the fragrant flowers. They make a delicious honey from the flowers that is considered a delicacy by beekeepers and honey connoisseurs. The cream colored flowers dangle from the middle of a leafy bract. They bloom in May and June.

Native Americans made thread and tangle-free rope from the inner bark and even stitched wounds with the thread. The Iroquois used the sapwood to carve elaborate masks.

Twigs, leaves, and fruit

Basswood has become a desirable wood for carving artifacts, musical instruments, and hunting decoys. Today, we still use basswood to make mats, fishnets, cords, coarse cloths, and shoes. Products made from the soft, pale, lightweight, and straight-grained wood include wooden dishware, cabinets, paper, and piano soundboards.

The long-stalked, heart-shaped leaves provide abundant shade to urban streets and sidewalks. Basswood leaves are similar to red mulberry (Moru.s rubra). The trees can be distinguished by pulling a leaf off the tree. Red mulberry leaves have a milky sap that is visible when the petiole, or leaf stalk, is pulled from the twig. Basswood sap is clear. Red mulberry leaves also have a coarse upper surface. When you rub the upper surface, you can feel a rough sandpaper-like leaf. Without physical investigation of the leaves, red mulberry could easily be mistaken for basswood.

Identifying Characteristics

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