White Basswood, American basswood

Tilia heterophylla

Physical Characteristics

Tilia heterophylla is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New York to Florida.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Young leaves - raw. A nice mild flavour with a slightly mucilaginous texture[K]. They go well in a mixed salad, though I have found that on their own they tend to leave a slightly rough feeling in the throat[K]. The dried flowers make a refreshing tea substitute[159]. A very good chocolate substitute is made from a paste of the ground fruits and flowers[2]. Trials on marketing the product failed because the paste decomposes readily[2].

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Diaphoretic Dysentery Poultice Sedative A tea made from the flowers is antispasmodic, diaphoretic and sedative[226]. A decoction of the inner bark has been used in the treatment of dysentery[257]. A decoction of the bark, mixed with cornmeal, has been used as a poultice in the treatment of boils[257]. A decoction of the inner bark and twigs has been used during pregnancy to treat heartburn, weak stomach and weak bowels[257].

Known Hazards

None known