American basswood

Scientific name: Tilia americana

Estimated tree age: 126 years old

American basswood trees are found across the Midwest and New England – in Ohio, they are found in the northern and western parts of the state. The tree is widely useful for both wildlife and commercial purposes – the odorless wood is lightweight and excellent for food packing, while bees favor the tree due to its nectar, which creates high-quality honey. Various parts of the tree are consumed by animals, with birds prefering the buds of the flowers and other species enjoying the bark. The flowers of the tree open in early summer, creating a colorful effect between the lime-colored bracts and the darker foliage.  

Photo from Grandview Heights TreePlotter.

American basswood trees are subject to having its leaf canopy skeletonized by Japanese beetles, which can chew through large swaths of a tree in only a few days.

Photo from OPLIN's What Tree is It?

The inner bark of the American basswood is tough, and historically was used by Native Americans by cutting into strips for bandages and rope.

Photo from OPLIN's What Tree is It?