Quick answer: American basswood (Tilia americana) is native to 37 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Plant Image Library, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Moist, rich, well-drained loamy soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jul |
| Height | 60-80 ft, up to 100+ ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds, special value to native and honey bees, supports conservation biological control |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about American basswood
Where is American basswood native?
American basswood (Tilia americana) is native to 37 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does American basswood bloom?
American basswood blooms Apr-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does American basswood need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained loamy soils. Mature height: 60-80 ft, up to 100+ ft.
Is American basswood good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds, special value to native and honey bees, supports conservation biological control.
Is American basswood deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
American basswood is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real American basswood seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Tilia americana on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with American basswood.
- Eastern red cedar Juniperus virginiana
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
- Sugar maple Acer saccharum
- Bur oak Quercus macrocarpa
- White oak Quercus alba
Also listed under
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