Basswood (American Linden) vs American Bladdernut

Basswood, also known as American Linden, provides shade and fragrant flowers with characteristically attractive leaves and branching.

It typically has a large uniformly round crown with a straight branch free trunk.

Basswood is typically found along streams and lakes or at the bottom of slopes where the ground is moist.

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

Compare Basswood (American Linden) with

Compare American Bladdernut with