Tilia oliveri

An unusual and elegant lime tree with attractive leaves introduced to the United Kingdom from Central China. The leaves are rounded, finely toothed and have a silvery-white underside which makes them particularly attractive when being ruffled by a breeze (a photo showing both the green and the silver sides of the leaves can be seen above centre).

In mid summer masses of pretty, scented white flowers appear on the branches. Tilia oliveri is a fascinating and very beautiful garden tree.

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Moist or well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: June - July
• Flower Colour: Ivory white
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Tilia oliveri grows to be a medium sized branching tree.
  • Height: 15 m (50 ft)
  • Spread: 8 m (26 ft)

• Notes: Interestingly a good chocolate substitute can apparently be made from a paste of the ground fruit and flowers although I have to say we have never tried this and prefer to grow Tilia oliveri as a beautiful ornamental tree!