Tuan Basswood (Tilia tuan)

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

Tilia tuan is a deciduous Tree growing to 16 m (52ft 6in) 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 from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

refreshing herb tea. — Young leaves - raw.; The dried flowers make a refreshing herb tea.; 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

Thickets and woods, 1300 - 2600 metres in W. Hupeh. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)