Field Guide to Westford

American Basswood

 

Tilia americana

 

American Basswoods are a large tree with drooping branches. They can grow up to 100 feet. Dark grey smooth bark, furrows into narrow scaly ridges. It is the northern most species of the basswood family. This tree’s clustered white flowers are favored bees. Soft light wood is favored in making things like meter sticks.

 

Leaves:

Broadly ovate, long pointed tip. Notched at base of leafstalk. Coarsely saw-toothed. Shiny and dark green on top, lightly haired and light green beneath. Turns pale yellow or brown in autumn.