Henry's Lime
tilia henryana
Also known as: ["Henry's Linden","Chinese Lime"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to China, valued for its fragrant flowers and shade-providing foliage.
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 henryana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for container or garden planting.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf scorch; provide shade during peak afternoon sun; protect from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; use shade cloth in summer; rotate plant for even light exposure.
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
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with lime if too acidic; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during active growth.
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; water before applying; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take an additional 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size; avoid excessive topping.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; remove old soil; inspect roots; plant at same depth; water lightly.
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 day 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; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows or halts; potential frost damage in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect from frost with burlap or frost cloth; avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrients; apply fertilizer; water thoroughly; monitor for signs of overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTilia henryana 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 henryana 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 henryana, commonly known as Henry's lime or linden tree, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has been traditionally used for its calming properties and is often consumed as a tea.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Tilia henryana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Tilia henryana toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are common issues with Tilia henryana?
A: Common problems include leaf spots and fungal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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