Large-leaved Lime

©Andreas Balzer

Large-leaved lime

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Scientific name: Tilia platyphyllos
A scarce tree of England and Wales, the Large-leaved lime is the rarest of our native limes. It is tall and broad, and can be found in forests and parks, where it is frequently planted.

Top facts


Height: up to 35m

Conservation status


When to see

January to December


The Large-leaved lime is a tall, broad tree of forests and parkland where it was often planted. It is a scarce wild plant in the UK and can be found in patches across England and Wales. Its flowers attract a huge number of insects looking for nectar, while its leaves are popular with caterpillars of the Lime hawk moth, among other species. It produces large-winged, nut-like fruits that disperse its seeds by the wind.

What to look for

The Large-leaved lime has heart-shaped, furry leaves; yellow-green, five-petalled flowers; and small, oval fruits with pointed tips. The three lime trees of the UK are difficult to tell apart. The Large-leaved lime lives up to its name: it has larger leaves than the Small-leaved lime, and never grows twiggy suckers like the Common lime.

Where to find

Found in England and Wales.

Did you know?

The wood of the Large-leaved lime is hard and doesn't splinter when it is hit, so it was used to make the poles of morris dancers!