Tilia Cordata Extra Heavy Standard 10-12 Girth Seconds

Tilia cordata – Small-Leaved Lime

Tilia cordata, commonly known as the Small-Leaved Lime, is a classic deciduous tree native to the UK and much of Europe. Revered for its elegant shape, glossy heart-shaped foliage, and highly fragrant summer flowers, it's a long-lived and versatile tree suitable for both ornamental and functional planting. It’s often seen in parks, large gardens, and avenues, and is also a valuable native species for wildlife.

Key Features:

• Graceful Form – Grows with a broad, pyramidal or rounded crown, offering beautiful symmetry and presence.

• Glossy Heart-Shaped Leaves – Small, dark green leaves with a finely serrated edge turn golden yellow in autumn, creating seasonal interest.

• Fragrant Flowers – In early to mid-summer, it produces clusters of pale yellow, sweetly scented flowers that are rich in nectar and highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

• Wildlife Friendly – As a native species, Tilia cordata supports a wide range of insects, birds, and bats, making it a valuable ecological addition to any landscape.

• Pollution Tolerant – Performs well in urban environments and along roadsides due to its resilience to pollution.

Growth Information:

• Height: 20–30 metres at maturity

• Spread: 10–15 metres

• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

• Soil: Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil but adapts to a wide range of conditions including clay and sandy loams

• Aspect: Thrives in full sun to partial shade

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK

Uses:

• Avenue Tree – Traditionally used to line streets or long driveways for an impressive, cohesive look.

• Parkland & Estate Planting – Ideal for large-scale landscapes where its size and shape can be fully appreciated.

• Pollinator Gardens – The summer flowers are a magnet for bees, particularly bumblebees and honeybees.

• Native Woodland Planting – Perfect for rewilding or biodiversity-focused schemes.

Planting & Aftercare:

• Planting: Best planted during the dormant season (autumn to early spring). Stake young trees if in an exposed position.

• Watering: Ensure regular watering for the first 12–18 months until fully established, especially in dry spells.

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure.

• Pruning: Requires minimal pruning — just remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain shape and health.

Noteworthy:

• Tilia cordata is a host to over 30 species of insects and plays a key role in supporting biodiversity.

• Unlike some larger-leaved lime species, it is less prone to aphid infestations and the associated sticky honeydew.

Tilia cordata is a timeless, majestic tree with deep roots in British landscapes — both literally and historically. Whether you're planting for wildlife, aesthetics, or heritage value, it’s an exceptional choice that rewards for generations.