I’m looking out the window of my loft toward the lake and front lawns, toward the backside of our home, and toward an immense American Linden tree (Tilia americana, also known as basswood or bee tree). Although this majestic presence has popped up in multiple posts across the years (see American Linden archives), it’s never been showcased in the quite the manner it deserves. I’d like to remedy that today with a look at a few prior mentions and a glimpse into why this feature tree located just east of the icehouse is botanically, ecologically, and culturally interesting.
Given the scale of Rosslyn’s barns, especially the carriage barn, this photo conveys something of the monumental stature of our American Linden tree. It’s massive. And its end-of-August canopy creates a wide shadow beneath which summer light and heat are dramatically reduced. Heart-shaped leaves, dark green despite the drought which has reduced the color saturation of most other trees, tremble in the slightest breeze.
In June, the American Linden flowers. Clusters of modest yellow-white blossoms, each no larger than a raspberry, release a fragrance that’s irresistible to honey bees. The tree attracts so many that standing beneath the blooming canopy an immense buzzing is apparent.
I have the sense that this gentle giant observes everything, watching over Rosslyn even when we are away. A constant presence, assured and reassuring, not merely ornamental, but wise witness ensuring tranquil sanctuary.
Allow me to revisit several recent appearances of the American Linden.
Seed ‘copters from the American Linden (also known as Tilia americana, basswood, or bee tree) whirl free of the tree that released them, across the lawn. Whirling diagonally away from the tree, transported with the slightest breeze, and then collecting on the lawn and decks. (Source: American Linden Seed ‘Copters)
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We returned home from a heat-indexed 102° Essex Day for a languid lunch — quiche and garden-to-table Caprese salad (with aromatic purple basil) followed by watermelon — under the shady American Linden. (Source: Essex Day)
Each summer this wildly productive tree [an American Linden (aka Basswood)] sheds a staggering number of fruit/nuts across the upper lawn. A veritable carpet of seed pods like a shadow beneath the canopy. And, because our teak dining table currently enjoys pride of place under the linden, the newly cleaned and oiled table top appears to be inviting one and all to a mysterious smorgasbord. (Source: Nature’s Interlopers)
A new perspective is emerging as Hroth frames my future office window (from the icehouse loft). Looking east (actually southeast in this photo), this will be my morning view. Panning to the left 10 to 15° the view will be filtered through the enormous American Linden (basswood) tree and across the upper lawn, through the ancient ginkgo tree and across the front lawn to Lake Champlain. (Source: Loft Office View)
Suspended beneath the American Linden’s trunk-sized limbs are two hammock-style swing seats. A fine place for two people to catch up while presiding over the lawn between our home, icehouse, and carriage barn as the breeze guides conversation. Even when unpeopled, the hammock swings enrapture, sometimes pirouetting, sometimes swinging. They dance on a verdant stage, romancing the late day sun, striped by barn shadows. (Source: Pirouettes & Silhouettes)
Before winding down altogether, I’ve discovered something new…
Edible and Medicinal Uses of American Linden
Until recently I was unaware that American Linden leaves and flowers are edible. I wish I’d been aware this spring so that I could have sampled the tender young leaves that apparently taste pleasant in salads, sandwiches, and soups. And, it turns out that the flowers have been used by Native Americans and early European settlers for their medical effects. Steeped in boiled water to create a tisane, linden tea is considered an anti-inflammatory and mild sedative. Will look deeper into this to see whether there’s science behind the practice. If so, might be worth experimenting, especially during spring allergy season.
What do you think?