Linden Tree

Early morning sun,
Lights the Linden tree's treasure,
And crowns her with gold.

Technically it's a small leaved lime tree, more commonly known as the Linden tree. According to folklore the tree is generally thought of to be female and is linked to fertility. Some more interesting facts:

Small leaved lime was widely coppiced and used as fuel, hop-poles, bean-sticks, cups, ladles, bowls and morris dancing sticks! This is because it has a tight grain and does not splinter when hit hard. The wood was also a favourite of wood-carvers. This led to large areas of lime woods managed as coppice to give a never ending supply of the wood. The fibrous layer of under-bark called 'bast' was twisted into ropes or used to make sandals. The leaves were also useful as fodder for livestock and the very young leaves were a tasty sandwich filling! The blossom can also be used to make tea which was used during the war as a mild sedative. Even the small round fruits are just about edible and have a cocoa-like taste.


See how educational blip can be!