American Basswood

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

60 - 80 Feet

Mature Spread

30 - 60 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

For a showy deciduous tree, the American Basswood is a high contender. Also known as Tilia americana, it produces attractive heart-shaped leaves and fragrant yellow flowers. Fast growing, this tree can grow to a final size of 60 to 80 feet tall. This makes an attractive tree for shade and street planting.

As a deciduous tree, the foliage of the American Basswood briefly turns yellow before falling. It develops a large branching structure that is perfect for providing shade. Furthermore, pollinators love the scented flowers that open in early summer. Native to Central and Northeastern North America, the American Basswood is suitable for growing in zones 3 to 8. 

American Basswood Plant Care

As a medium-sized tree, care must be taken when planting the American Basswood to make sure no overhead lines or structural overhangs will be affected as it matures. Regular watering is required on planting and for the first two seasons at least to help it become established. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil, and will struggle if grown in a highly alkaline soil. To help lock in moisture and suppress weeds you can mulch around the base of the tree. 

You can prune the American Basswood when it is young to help form a pleasing branch network. When mature, any pruning is best performed in late winter as the tree breaks dormancy. If any suckers appear at the base of the tree, you can cut them away with a clean and sharp pair of pruners. 

American Basswood Plant Spacing

As a large and fast-growing tree, the American Basswood requires plenty of space to mature. You will want to plant this tree around 40 to 50 feet away from other specimens. Shade-loving perennials can make great underplanting companions.