Henry's Lime
Tilia henryana · Malvaceae
📷 Salix · CC BY-SA 3.0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around henry's lime and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Tilia henryana
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Type
- Deciduous tree
- Adult height
- 8 m
- Flowering
- June to July
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Water requirement
- Moderate
- Origin
- Central China
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Let it establish for 2-3 years before pruning: the more mature it is, the better it tolerates shaping cuts. Apply compost every 2 years in April to support growth.
The common mistake
Impatient gardeners cut it back too young or too hard, slowing its height growth and fragmenting the elegant canopy structure.
The pro's trick
Lightly stake young trees during strong winds (first 3 years) with a flexible tie; this speeds up deep root development and lasting stability.
Care
Exposure
Henry's linden appreciates full sun exposure for optimal growth and generous flowering. It also tolerates partial shade, but will flower less abundantly. Choose a location sheltered from strong winds, which could damage its foliage.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to promote root establishment. Once established, Henry's linden tolerates moderate dry periods well thanks to its deep root system. Increase watering during prolonged drought, especially in summer.
Soil
This linden prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rather deep. It adapts to most soils, including slightly chalky ones. Avoid compacted or permanently waterlogged soils.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain good structure and remove dead or misplaced branches. No drastic pruning is necessary if the tree develops well. Intervene preferably in autumn or late winter before sap flow resumes.
Fertilization
An application of well-decomposed compost in spring is generally sufficient to nourish your linden. When planting, incorporate organic matter into the soil. In poor soil, a balanced tree fertilizer can be applied in early spring.
Health and pests
Henry's linden is generally robust. Watch for scale insects or aphids, especially in warm periods, as well as fungal diseases in case of excessive humidity. Good air circulation and regular maintenance prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Henry's linden is named after British botanist Augustine Henry, a passionate explorer in China during the 19th century. It is one of the species discovered during his botanical expeditions that greatly enriched European plant collections. Its nectar-rich flowers, highly appreciated by bees, make it a valuable tree for honey lovers and biodiversity enthusiasts.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Small-leaved limeTilia cordata
- Rose of SharonHibiscus syriacus
- Marsh mallowAlthaea officinalis
- Silver LimeTilia tomentosa
- Crimean lindenTilia euchlora
- Swamp hibiscusHibiscus moscheutos
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.