Image: Linden Leaf Comparison for Garden Selection

This high-resolution landscape image presents a comparative study of seven distinct Linden tree leaves, meticulously arranged side-by-side on a neutral, parchment-toned background. The composition is designed to assist gardeners, horticulturists, and enthusiasts in identifying and selecting the most suitable Linden tree varieties for specific garden needs based on leaf morphology.

Each leaf is labeled with its botanical name, representing a different Linden species or cultivar: Tilia cordata (Small-leaved Linden), Tilia platyphyllos (Large-leaved Linden), Tilia tomentosa (Silver Linden), Tilia americana (American Linden), Tilia × europaea (Common Linden), Tilia henryana (Henry’s Linden), and Tilia japonica (Japanese Linden).

The leaves are arranged from left to right in increasing size and complexity, showcasing a spectrum of shapes, textures, and vein structures:

Leaf 1 – Tilia cordata: Small, heart-shaped with a rounded base and sharply pointed tip. Light green with fine serrations and a delicate central vein. Ideal for compact gardens due to its modest canopy and elegant foliage.

Leaf 2 – Tilia platyphyllos: Slightly larger and darker green. Broad heart shape with more pronounced venation and coarser serrations. Known for its robust growth and shade potential.

Leaf 3 – Tilia tomentosa: Rich green with a silvery underside. The leaf is more elongated, with a velvety texture and subtle lobing. Its reflective foliage makes it a striking ornamental choice.

Leaf 4 – Tilia americana: Large, triangular heart shape with deep veins and a slightly leathery surface. The leaf’s bold structure suits expansive landscapes and wildlife-friendly gardens.

Leaf 5 – Tilia × europaea: The largest leaf in the lineup. Deep green, sharply pointed, and heavily veined. A hybrid known for its adaptability and stately presence in formal gardens.

Leaf 6 – Tilia henryana: Medium-sized with fringed margins and a glossy surface. Unique in its serration pattern and ideal for collectors or exotic garden themes.

Leaf 7 – Tilia japonica: Smaller, rounded heart shape with a bright green hue and fine venation. Its compact form and subtle elegance make it suitable for minimalist or Zen-inspired gardens.

The background’s soft texture and warm tone enhance the natural green hues of the leaves, while the lighting—diffused and even—ensures clarity of detail without harsh shadows. Each leaf’s stem is visible, extending downward in a gentle curve, reinforcing the botanical authenticity of the presentation.

This image serves as both an educational tool and a visual reference, helping users compare leaf morphology across Linden species to inform planting decisions based on aesthetics, growth habits, and environmental compatibility.

The image is related to: The Best Linden Tree Varieties to Plant in Your Garden