Tilia chinensis
Tilia chinensisfam. Tiliaceae
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Pl. 0993 — Tilia chinensis
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IOverview
Overview
Tilia chinensis, commonly known as Chinese Linden, is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southern regions, including Tibet. This versatile plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 25 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves and documented medicinal uses, Tilia chinensis is both ornamental and useful. Its distinctive feature includes fragrant, creamy-white flowers that bloom in late spring, adding a delightful aroma to the landscape.
Quick answers
What is Tilia chinensis?
Tilia chinensis, commonly known as Chinese Linden, is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southern regions, including Tibet. This versatile plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tilia chinensis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 4-8 and can reach a height of 25 meters. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The leaves are edible and can be used for various culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tilia chinensis for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with medium texture. Ensure containers are at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip saplings in early spring, digging a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, water deeply once a week during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts. Harvest leaves for culinary use as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Fiber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Tiliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Tiliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 09936070-f505-4883-a69b-b712025e7279
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