1. Native / Non-native Status
Native to parts of southern Britain and much of Europe, but less common than Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata). Often planted in parks and estates.
2. Evergreen / Deciduous
Deciduous – leaves fall in autumn.
3. Appearance
Leaves: Large, heart-shaped leaves, 6–15 cm long, with sharply serrated edges and a pointed tip. Dark green above, paler and hairy beneath (especially on the veins). Longer stalks than Small-leaved Lime. Arranged alternately.
Bark: Smooth and grey on young trees, becoming ridged and furrowed with age.
Flowers/Fruit/Seeds: Clusters of fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers in early summer, attached to a pale bract. Fruits are round, nut-like, and larger than those of Small-leaved Lime, with a hard, ridged surface.
Overall shape: A large tree with a broad, domed crown and dense foliage.
4. Typical Size
17–22 m tall, sometimes more; spread 15–20 m.
5. Habitat & Range
Native in scattered parts of southern Britain (especially ancient woods and limestone areas). Widely planted in parks, estates, and large gardens. Prefers fertile, well-drained soils but avoids very poor or waterlogged ground.
6. Distinctive Features (ID tips)
Larger leaves than other limes, hairy beneath.
Hard, ridged fruit.
Dense, broad crown with a heavy shade.
7. Seasonal Changes
Spring: Large fresh green leaves appear.
Summer: Strongly scented yellow-white flowers in clusters.
Autumn: Leaves turn pale yellow before falling.
Winter: Bare branches, ridged bark more visible.
8. Human Uses
Timber used for carving, furniture, and musical instruments (like Small-leaved Lime).
Flowers sometimes used for herbal teas.
Historically planted in avenues and as a shade tree on estates.
9. Wildlife Value
Flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and pollinators.
Leaves support aphids, which provide food for insectivorous birds.
Dense crown provides roosting sites for bats and nesting for birds.
10. Fun Fact / Cultural Note
Lime trees were often planted in great avenues on European estates, symbolising order and grandeur.
In folklore, limes were associated with loyalty, truth, and justice, and were sometimes used as village meeting trees.
11. Planting & Care (Basic Instructions)
Best time to plant: Late autumn or early spring.
Soil: Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained loams; tolerates clay and chalk but dislikes extremes of drought or waterlogging.
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Water regularly until established; moderate drought tolerance once mature.
Spacing: 10–15 m apart for specimen trees; closer for formal avenues.
Aftercare: Mulch around the base to conserve moisture. Protect young trees from browsing animals. Light pruning in winter if required.
12. Good for Urban or Garden Setting?
Urban: Suitable for parks, estates, and wide streets, though less common than Small-leaved Lime or Common Lime.
Garden: Best for large gardens or landscapes. Not suitable for small gardens due to size and heavy shade.
Bees: Great for bees!