When we think of planting for pollinators, butterfly gardens filled with blooming shrubs and flowers come to mind. If we think of trees at all, it’s typically smaller ornamental species such as dogwoods and serviceberries. However, larger shade trees can play an important role as well, providing food for pollinators along with increased environmental benefits such as stormwater and pollution absorption. Linden trees thrive in New Jersey, and are a great option as a pollinator-friendly shade tree. Learn more about Lindens here!
The genus tilia consists of over 30 different trees and bushes, spread across North America, Europe, and Asia. Common names vary regionally, with Linden trees often being referred to as ‘basswoods’ and ‘limes’, despite being unrelated to fruit-bearing lime trees. The most common species in New Jersey are tilia americana and tilia cordata – American Linden and Little-leaf Linden, respectively. The American Linden is native to the Eastern United States while the Little-leaf Linden is native to Europe, though both thrive in New Jersey’s climate and are excellent shade tree choices with their dense, pyramidal canopies. A defining feature across all species of tilia are heart-shaped leaves, usually slightly offset and asymmetrical, and small, bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Linden trees are known for their attraction of bees, sometimes nicknamed the ‘bee tree’. It is not uncommon to see bees covering nearly every flower when the tree is in bloom. Linden trees are excellent nectar producers and often used to make honey, as honeybees can collect almost an ounce of nectar from a single flower! During proper growing conditions and very humid weather, the flow of nectar can sometimes be so heavy that it is visible on the flowers. Linden honey, which can be made from any species in the tilia genus, has been used for thousands of years to help soothe ailments including sore throats, fevers, headaches, and respiratory issues. Today Linden honey is one of the most valuable varieties of honey, with its sweet, woodsy flavor. The flowers are edible as well, and can be used to make herbal tea.
Lindens have historical and cultural significance as well, especially in Europe. Early Germanic people gathered around Linden trees to hold meetings, celebrations, and even judicial matters, as the Linden tree was believed to help reveal the truth. Today, there is a major street in Berlin named ‘unter den Linden’, named for the Linden trees lining the street. Greek mythology viewed Linden trees as virtuous, and several stories involve characters turning into Linden trees. Linden trees were sacred in Slavic mythology, and many villages in Poland are named after the tree. It is the national emblem of four countries even to this day. In our own state of New Jersey, at least two towns – Linden and Lindenwold – are named after the tree. The soft wood of the Linden tree is also highly sought after for crafts such as musical instruments, window blinds, and even marionettes! Linden trees also contain bast, a fibre collected from the inner bark of the tree, and have been used for centuries around the world in weaving clothing, ropes, and rugs.
While there’s not much modern mythology regarding Lindens, they’re still very popular trees. American Lindens are native to New Jersey and can grow up to 80 feet tall, living for hundreds of years under good conditions. They can be sensitive to pollution so streetside plantings may not always be appropriate, but they make great yard trees. They prefer well-drained, loamy soils, but can adapt to clay soils and occasional flooding. If you’re looking to plant a tree that provides an incredible amount of shade and is great for pollinators, it’s hard to go wrong with a Linden!