Broad-leaved Linden is a magnificent European native that brings both beauty and practical value to landscapes across hardiness zones 3 to 7. This medium to large deciduous tree grows 60 to 80 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide, earning its common name from leaves notably larger than those of its littleleaf linden cousin. In June, fragrant and showy flowers emerge to attract butterflies and other pollinators, while the tree's pubescent stems and leaves give it a distinctive soft appearance. Remarkably adaptable and drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates everything from urban pollution to heavy pruning, making it equally at home lining city streets or anchoring a country garden.
Partial Sun
Moderate
3-7
960in H x 600in W
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High
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The fragrant June blooms are a standout feature, drawing butterflies and pollinators with their showy display and sweet scent. Large, distinctly hairy leaves set this linden apart from its relatives, giving the tree a soft, tactile quality that changes character with the seasons. Its exceptional drought tolerance combined with ability to adapt to heavy pruning means you can shape it as a hedge, street tree, or specimen shade tree without struggle. Urban gardeners particularly appreciate its resilience to poor soil conditions and pollution.
Broad-leaved Linden is primarily grown as a shade tree and street tree, valued for its substantial canopy and ability to provide cooling relief in urban and suburban settings. Its tolerance for heavy pruning and urban conditions makes it a preferred choice for municipal plantings and formal landscapes where consistent structure matters. The fragrant flowers also attract butterflies and other pollinators, contributing to pollinator habitat in gardens and parks.
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Broad-leaved Linden tolerates heavy pruning exceptionally well, making it adaptable to various forms from naturally spreading shade tree to formally trained hedge. Prune in late winter or early spring before active growth begins. Remove crossing or damaged branches to maintain a strong structure, particularly important as the tree matures to its full 60 to 80-foot height.
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“Broad-leaved Linden is native to Europe and southwestern Asia, where it has long served as a valued shade and street tree across the continent. The species has been cultivated for centuries in European gardens and urban landscapes, prized for its ornamental qualities and reliable growth. Its introduction to North American gardens followed naturally as settlers brought favored European species with them, and it has since become established in temperate regions where it thrives.”