Large Leaved Lime (tilia platyphyllos)

• Native (though rare in the wild) deciduous tree, fast-growing to 30–40m tall with a broad, domed crown; ideal for parks, avenues, or large landscapes.
• Fragrant pale yellow flowers in early summer provide abundant nectar for bees and pollinators; excellent honey plant.
• Large heart-shaped leaves (dark green above, downy below) turn yellow in autumn; attracts aphids and their predators (ladybirds, hoverflies, birds).
• Attractive brownish red twigs with older bark tends to Fade to Grey with a grooved pattern.
• Supports wildlife: leaves for moth caterpillars, dead wood for beetles, nesting sites for birds.
• Tolerant of most moist soils (including clay, chalk); amenable to coppicing, pollarding, or pleaching; long-lived and low-maintenance once established.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun to partial shade; deep, moist but well-drained soil (tolerates a wide range but dislikes very dry or waterlogged); prefers sites sheltered from cold winds; requires vast space – unsuitable for small gardens.
• Preparation: Dig large hole twice root width; add organic matter to poor soils.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees; firm in, water well, mulch base (keep clear of trunk); may produce basal suckers – remove if unwanted.
• Aftercare: Water regularly first few years in dry spells; minimal pruning (winter for form, or pollard/coppice as desired); monitor for aphids (causing honeydew).