8. Small leaved Lime

Common Name – Lime

Latin Name - Tilia x cordata

Height -   Metres     

Being a hybrid between the native small-leaved and large-leaved limes, this tree as characteristics of both these tree species with large burrs and leaf shoots at the base of the tree. The tree as dark green heart shaped leaves, that fade to a dull yellow before falling in autumn and its flowers are white-yellow and eventually, develop into round-oval, slightly ribbed fruits, with a pointed tip.

The tree is both a particular favorite of Aphids and their many predators and as such, is a food source for hoverflies, ladybirds and many species of birds. Lime leaves are eaten by many moth species, including the Lime Hawk and Peppered Moth and bees also drink the honeydew that is deposited by the Aphids. The flowers are also beneficial to bees who thrive on both the pollen and nectar.