Tilia americana, commonly called American Basswood, is a large and handsome North American tree which typically grows 50 to 80 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide, making it a perfect candidate for a shade tree. It is extremely cold tolerant to USDA Zone 2a (-50F) and hardy south to the southern Appalachians, it thrives in both dry upland areas as well as moist, low woodland areas. In late spring to early summer it produces abundant clusters of fragrant soft yellow flowers. Each flower cluster droops from a showy, papery, narrow, leaf-like bract to 5” long. When in full bloom, the honey bees often visit in such abundant numbers for the nectar that humming can be heard quite a distance from the tree. Honey made from the nectar of these flowers is a prized gourmet item. Flowers have also been used to make tea. The large and attractive ovate dark green leaves up to 6 inches long have serrated margins and silvery undersides. As with sugar maples, syrup can be made from the sweet sap of the Basswood. Get all the details below