Little Leaf Linden

This round-crowned shade tree has a neat, somewhat formal appearance and heart-shaped leaves. Its small creamy-white flowers are fragrant in summer, but not very noticeable. It has yellow to golden fall color.

The Little Leaf Linden is well suited to a moist but not soggy lawn. Like any blooming tree, it may attract bees for the 2 to 3 weeks when it is blooming. It is very popular as a street tree in its native Europe, where its flowers are collected and used to make tea.

Note that any tree grown in a lawn may develop surface roots unless irrigation is properly managed. Tree roots need both air and water in the root zone. Lawns are frequently overwatered, resulting in water-logged soil with no air in the root zone. Check your tree’s root zone to see if it is water-logged or too dry. The best method is to dig a small hole about 12 inches deep and look at the soil: if it is bone dry, there is not enough water; if it is muddy, there is too much water; if it is moist like a cake, it is just right. Alternatively, you can use an inexpensive moisture meter from your nursery or hardware store and look for a “moist” reading.