Large-leaved lime
tilia platyphyllos
Also known as: ["Large-leaved linden","Bigleaf linden"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Europe, known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Tilia |
| Botanical Name: | Tilia platyphyllos |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers space to grow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in partial shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost in early spring; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering in spring; seeds (stratification required for germination).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; early spring for layering; autumn for seed collection and stratification.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); partial shade.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix; well-draining soil for layering; moist sand or vermiculite for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; layering takes 6–12 months; seeds germinate in 1–2 years after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic wrap or propagator, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching; remove crossing or rubbing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the tree, remove dead or diseased wood, encourage airflow, maintain size and structure.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, make clean cuts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, allow to drain.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown specimens.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if crowded, position plant correctly, water well, provide care post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or browning in cold stress, stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows or halts; potential dieback of young shoots in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use appropriate fertilizer, follow dilution instructions, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTilia platyphyllos is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTilia platyphyllos is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTilia platyphyllos, commonly known as large-leaved lime, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, particularly for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tilia platyphyllos toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are common issues with this plant?
A: Common problems include leaf spots and fungal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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