The branching habit of this tree is so unique - so utterly recognizable in the winter - but I can't quite get the right words to describe it.
The young bark is really shiny, and though the lateral branches sprout from the trunk in an upward, arcing habit, once the canopy opens up, they sit in horizontal planes.
The buds here are pretty big as they are about to leaf out, but all winter, they are noticeable and seem to punctuate the ends of twigs. Again, you see the arcing shape repeat here. Whenever I walk under them, I appreciate the lacy look of these canopies.
Of course, in leaf the tree is pretty remarkable. They have fragrant flowers in the summer time (rare for a street tree) and have a lovely yellow fall color. Lindens (or Lime Trees, as they are also called) are very popular in Europe as well. There are two clipped allees of them in Paris, at the Palais Royale.
2 comments:
The last picture reminds me of Hyde Park-which I really loved. There's a certain turn of the century feeling to the rows of trees, and I can't quite put my finger on why I feel that way.
I love your blog and your photos. Spring is such an exciting time for me (especially after living through harsh Chicago winters). I agree with Christina. That last photo does have a certain Hyde Park feel to it.
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