What Is a Linden Greenspire Tree?

Linden trees produce showy, fragrant flowers.

The Greenspire linden, Tilia cordata, normally grows 50 feet tall with a branch spread of 35 feet. Also known as littleleaf linden, Greenspire has smaller foliage than other lindens, creating a delicate appearance.

Characteristics

Young Greenspires are pyramid-shaped, rounding out to an oval as they mature. Its leaves are heart-shaped, serrated and range from light green in the spring to dark green in late summer. The tree bears fragrant yellow flowers in the summer and small brown fruits in the fall.

Considerations

The Greenspire linden grows well in partial to full sun in soils ranging from moderately acidic to moderately alkaline. Japanese beetles eat Greenspire leaves and, when prolific, can kill the tree. Greenspire linden grows well in moist, well-drained loam and clay soil.

Uses

Greenspire linden is a showy and easily maintained landscape tree. The small fruits do not attract wildlife or pose litter problems. Branches require little pruning. The tree also tolerates pollution. The United States Forest Service recommends this tree for areas with poor growing conditions, such as parking lots, highway edges and land with compacted soil.

References

• The Backyard Gardener: Greenspire Linden
• United States Forest Service: Tilia Cordata
• University of Connecticut: Tilia Cordata