Species little-leaf linden
lime-green leaves on dark-brown branches

little-leaf linden

Tilia cordata 'Chancellor'

Also Known As - small-leaved linden
Little-leaf linden (Tilia cordata 'Chancellor') is a deciduous tree with ovate-shaped green leaves, up to 4 inches in length. It produces small yellow-flowered clusters which have a pleasant scent during mid summer. The crown is wide and dome-shaped. It has a moderate growth rate and can reach up to 40 feet at maturity. This hardy tree tolerates many soil types and prefers moist locations, making it a good choice for urban plantings. It is a good shade tree and a dependable street tree. Its characteristic fresh scent makes it a nice specimen for a residential landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Pale yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Little-leaf lindens should be watered once a week or once every 2 weeks, depending on the season and amount of rainfall. During the summer season, water more frequently as the plant can become dry quickly. During the winter, water less as the plant goes dormant and needs less hydration. To water, use a hose or watering can to provide the plant with 1-2 inches of water at its base. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water until it reaches a depth of 8-10 inches for best results. Be sure to water the soil, not the leaves, as too much water can lead to mold and fungus problems.

sunlight

Little-leaf linden trees (Tilia cordata 'Chancellor') prefer full sunlight and should receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight during the day. For optimal growth, little-leaf linden trees should receive at least 8 hours of sunlight during the day, as this will help the tree bloom and produce fruit. In areas that experience hot summers and intense sunlight, the tree will benefit from afternoon shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Little-leaf linden trees should receive some direct sunlight throughout the day to keep leaves healthy and vibrant, but should not be left in direct sunlight for too long to prevent sunburn and leaf discoloration.

pruning

Little-leaf Linden trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be used sparingly, as it encourages new growth and should generally not be used if the tree is healthy. If pruning is necessary, only a small portion of the canopy should be removed. This should include no more than 10 to 15 percent of the tree's canopy, and a maximum of 20 percent of the thinning cuts. Large pruning cuts should also be avoided, as they can cause serious damage to the tree. Branches that are dead, diseased, or damaged should be removed, as well as any crossing or overly large branches. Pruning can also be used to shape and direct growth, as well as reduce the risk of storm damage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Little-leaf linden typically starts flowering in late May or early June.

Starts Flowering

Little-leaf linden typically starts flowering in late May or early June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Tilia cordata 'Chancellor' typically begins in July and continues through August.

Hardiness Map