Trees with Character No. 2. Small leaved Lime.

Small leaved Lime. Tilia cordata.

This tree is special. Not only because it is now uncommon, especially in the North and West, but particularly because it is proudly owned by Knottman and Mrs. K. A couple of years ago they decided that constantly talking about conservation was not enough. So they bought 1.7 acres of ancient woodland on limestone pavement.

There are plenty of yews and hazels but pride of place goes to this Small leaved Lime.

Traditionally it was thought that Oak was the predominant tree in England over the past 1500 years or so. But dendrologists have concluded that in the dark ages and early mediaeval period it was this Tilia cordata which dominated in the South and East.

When the climate cooled it declined and Oak took over. It is now uncommon and some places with significant stands have been made SSSIs.

The tree is hermaphrodite and is pollinated by insects, especially bees. It is also popular with moths- especially the Lime Hawkmoth.

The photograph shows a large number of vertical stems. But it is all one tree. If it is restricted at the base, as here growing in limestone pavement, it can send up suckers from the root crown, which reach the height of the main trunk.
It is the National tree of the Czech Republic.