Also known as Little-leaf Linden or Tilia cordata, this elegant deciduous tree is prized for its heart-shaped leaves, fragrant summer flowers, and strong, upright growth. Long-lived and wildlife-friendly, the small-leaved lime standard tree brings shade, structure, and seasonal charm to any garden, avenue, or larger landscape.
At Tree Heritage Nursery, we supply small-leaved lime standard trees in a selection of sizes: 10–12 cm, 14–16 cm, and 18–20 cm.
Growing Conditions
Tilia cordata grows best in moist, well-drained soils, including clay, loam, or sandy types. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of urban pollution, making it an excellent choice for both city and countryside settings. It’s also wind-tolerant and relatively drought-resistant once established.
Where to Position It
Ideal for avenues, parks, large gardens, or as a statement tree in a formal setting, small-leaved lime trees are appreciated for their symmetrical form and lush summer canopy. Their nectar-rich flowers also attract pollinators, making them well-suited to wildlife-friendly planting schemes.
Foliage, Flowers & Fruit
The heart-shaped, finely toothed leaves are a soft green that turn pale yellow in autumn, providing a gentle seasonal display. In early to mid-summer, the tree produces clusters of pale yellow, sweetly scented flowers, which are highly attractive to bees. These are followed by small, rounded fruits (nutlets), adding subtle interest through late summer.
Size & Growth
-
Ultimate Height: Up to 40 metres
-
Ultimate Spread: Up to 15 metres
-
Time to Ultimate Height: 20–50 years
Delivery — By Our Own Team
Standard and pleached trees are too tall for courier pallets, so our own team delivers them:
-
£55 — within 18.6 miles (30 km) of our Hertford nursery
-
£105 — 18.6–46.6 miles (30–75 km)
-
£250 — 46.6–205 miles (75–330 km)
-
£400 — 205–329 miles (330–530 km)
Oversized trees are delivered within a 4-week window and we’ll agree the date with you. Scotland or beyond 329 miles: please contact us for a quote before ordering. Select your distance band at checkout — we confirm by postcode before dispatch.
Plant Now or Reserve for Autumn
We deliver all year round — our container-grown stock can be planted in any season (summer planting just needs committed watering). Prefer to plant in autumn, when establishment is easiest? Order now and add a note at checkout — we’ll reserve your plants and deliver when you’re ready.
Planting & Aftercare
Every order includes our planting and establishment notes. The single biggest factor in success is water: new plants need generous, regular watering through their first two growing seasons. Follow the guide and your plants will establish strongly — and we’re on the end of the phone if you need us.
Why Tree Heritage
We’re a working nursery in Hertfordshire, not a reseller. Every plant is selected, grown on and quality-checked by our own team before it leaves the nursery.
