The American basswood tree is native to eastern North America. The species is found from southeast Manitoba to New Brunswick, south to south Carolina, and southwest to northeast Oklahoma. It also grows in western Nebraska, from the Niobrara River to Cherry County, Nebraska. It is also used for furniture and other items. It is widely available in lumber and timber mills. The name is derived from its native habitat in the area. However, many people do not know this tree’s full range.
The American basswood tree is native to eastern North America. The species is found from southeast Manitoba to New Brunswick, south to south Carolina, and southwest to northeast Oklahoma. Photo credit: Gardenia
The American basswood tree is native to eastern North America. The species is found from southeast Manitoba to New Brunswick, south to south Carolina, and southwest to northeast Oklahoma. It also grows in western Nebraska, from the Niobrara River to Cherry County, Nebraska. It is also used for furniture and other items. It is widely available in lumber and timber mills. The name is derived from its native habitat in the area. However, many people do not know this tree’s full range.
The American basswood is the northernmost of the four species of basswood. It is a handsome shade or street tree that attracts bees during flowering. It produces honey that has a distinctive odor, making it a popular species with bees. The wood from American basswood is light and strong, and it is used for crates, furniture, and musical instruments. The trees can sprout from damaged stumps. Their flowers are yellow and have partially adnate bracts. The fruit is dispersed by wind, which makes it a desirable plant for bees.
It is also used for furniture and other items. It is widely available in lumber and timber mills. Photo credit: Home Stratosphere
Among the native trees in North America, the American basswood has one of the worst seed-germination rates. This is due to its hard seed coating, which can delay germination for two years. It is important to sow the seeds early in the autumn, before the coating develops, to ensure immediate germination. Another drawback to the American basswood is that it is self-coppicing, meaning it will grow anywhere a tree has a stump.
Benefits of the American Basswood Tree: The American Basswood Tree (Tilia americana) provides several benefits, including:
Timber: Basswood is a lightweight and soft wood, making it suitable for furniture, paneling, carving, and woodenware.
Wildlife habitat: The tree provides food and shelter for many species of birds and mammals, including the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and the American Bee-eater.
Landscape: Basswood is an attractive ornamental tree, with fragrant flowers in the summer and attractive yellow leaves in the fall.
Medicinal: The leaves and bark of the basswood have been used for medicinal purposes by Native American communities, including to treat respiratory problems and skin irritation.
Ecosystem: Basswood trees play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, as they provide shade, prevent soil erosion, and improve air and water quality.
