Lindens, comprising about 30 species of deciduous trees of the northern temperate regions, belong to the genus Tilia, linden family, Tiliaceae. They are often called basswoods in North America. Lindens have saw-toothed, somewhat heart-shaped leaves and a tough, fibrous inner bark that has been used for cordage and mats. The small, fragrant yellow flowers of many species provide nectar for bees. The light, soft wood is used for containers, interior finish, and wood carving. T. cordata, the small-leaved European linden, is one of several European species planted as a shade tree in both Europe and North America.

At right: a Moscow linden tree in bud.