Botanical Identification of Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos)

To identify Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) accurately, examine its morphological characteristics, taxonomic classification, and diagnostic features.

Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) Monograph

Scientific Classification

Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Its classification includes the family Tiliaceae, genus Tilia, and species Tilia platyphyllos. The division, class, and order are not provided in the data.

The following table shows the full taxonomy of this medicinal plant.

Botanical Nomenclature and Synonyms

The scientific name of Small-Leaf Lime is Tilia platyphyllos, first described by Linnaeus in 1753. It is also known by several synonyms, including Tilia europaea and Tilia cordata var. platyphyllos. Common names include Small-Leaf Lime, Lime Tree, and European Lime. Regional and historical names vary, reflecting its widespread use in traditional herbal medicine across Europe.

Morphological Characteristics

Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) is a small to medium-sized tree with a rounded crown. It has a shallow, fibrous root system that spreads widely near the surface. The stem is smooth, grey-brown, and becomes fissured with age. Leaves are heart-shaped, 5-10 cm long, with a broad base and smooth edges. Inflorescences are clustered panicles, bearing small, yellow-green flowers. The fruit is a small, dry nut enclosed in a cupule, containing one or two seeds.

Diagnostic Identification Features

Small-Leaf Lime can be distinguished by its broad, ovate leaves with smooth edges and a pale green underside. It has small, pale yellow flowers in clusters and produces small, round, brown fruits. It is often confused with Large-Leaf Lime, but it has smaller leaves and a more compact growth habit.

Natural Habitat and Geographic Distribution

Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) is native to Central and Eastern Europe. It thrives in temperate climates with moderate rainfall. It prefers well-drained, loamy soils. It is commonly found at elevations between 200 and 800 meters.

Phenology and Growth Cycle

Small-Leaf Lime blooms in early summer, typically June to July, producing small yellowish-white flowers. Seed formation occurs in late summer to early autumn, around August to September. For identification purposes, harvest timing is best during early to mid-summer when leaves are fully developed and flowers are in bloom.

Phylogenetic Relationships

Small-Leaf Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) is closely related to other lime species within the Tilia genus. It shares key characteristics with Tilia cordata and Tilia europaea, such as similar leaf shapes and flower structures. These species are part of the Tiliaceae family, which is defined by its simple, alternate leaves and clustered flowers.