Tilia platyphyllos ‘Aurea’

Tilia platyphyllos ‘Aurea’, commonly known as the Golden-stemmed tree, distinguishes itself from the original species by its golden-yellow shoots that stand out, particularly in the winter months. These are just as outstanding as the colourful winter twigs of willows and dogwood. Consequently, it is frequently used as a pollard to accentuate its rich winter hues.

Much like its parent species, it is a sizeable, relatively fast-growing tree, evolving into a majestic parkland tree that features round-ovate leaves with sharp toothed edges. Whilst it does produce suckers, they are not as prolific as those of Tilia europaea, but as such, is better suited to the wider landscape than tree planting – unless managed as a pollard or planted on a wide verge.

The overall tree structure takes on a broadly columnar shape, making it well-suited as a grand venue tree or an impressive standalone specimen. Blooming from late June to early July, it holds allure for bees and other pollinators, although it is susceptible to aphids and the associated honeydew.