Oliveri Basswood (Tilia oliveri)

Family: Tiliaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Tilia oliveri is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - raw or cooked. A very good chocolate substitute is made from a paste of the ground fruits and flowers. Trials on marketing the product failed because the paste decomposes readily. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; A very good chocolate substitute is made from a paste of the ground fruits and flowers.; Trials on marketing the product failed because the paste decomposes readily.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist woods in N.W. Hupeh. In evergreen or mixed evergreen and deciduous forests at elevations of 1300 - 2250 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)