Tilia tomentosa, commonly called silver linden or European white linden, is native to Europe and Asia. It is noted for its attractive foliage, which is glossy green above and silvery-white below. The foliage flutters in the slightest breeze, showcasing the silver and green leaf colors. This is a medium to large deciduous tree, typically growing to 50-70ā (less frequently to 100ā) tall with upright branching and a broad-columnar habit. Fragrant pale yellow flowers in drooping cymes appear in late spring to early summer (June-July). When a tree is in full bloom, bees often visit in such abundant numbers that humming can be heard many feet from the tree. Flowers are followed by small nutlets attached to narrow, bract-like, strap-shaped leafy wings (to 2.5ā long). Nutlets ripen in late summer. Ovate, shiny, dark green leaves (to 4ā long) with acuminate tips and serrate margins are densely covered beneath with silvery-white hairs. Fall color is an undistinguished pale green to pale yellow. Hardy in zones 4-7.
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained loams, but adapts to a wide range of soil conditions. Best drought resistance of any of the lindens. Good tolerance for urban conditions. Garden Uses. Shade, lawn tree or street tree.