American Sentry Linden

American Sentry Linden (Tilia americana 'McKSentry')

American Sentry Linden (Tilia americana 'McKSentry') is a refined cultivar of the native American Linden, also known as Basswood, valued for its upright form, fragrant flowers, and adaptability to urban conditions. With a strong central leader and symmetrical branching, this tree is ideal for street use, formal plantings, or as a vertical focal point in large landscapes.

Distinctive Features

This stately deciduous tree matures at 40 to 50 feet tall with a narrow pyramidal shape and uniform habit. Its large, heart-shaped green leaves provide deep summer shade and turn golden yellow in fall. Creamy-yellow, sweet-scented flowers bloom in early summer and attract pollinators, while its dense canopy offers excellent sound buffering in populated areas.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained loam or clay
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; tolerates short dry spells once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal point tree for civic, campus, or institutional landscapes
• Shade tree for large lawns or open greenspaces
• Street tree for wide boulevards and parkways
• Pollinator-friendly addition to native plantings
• Sound barrier or visual screen in residential areas

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune lightly in winter to maintain strong structure
• Mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
• Water during extended dry periods in early years
• Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release tree formula
• Inspect periodically for aphids or leaf spot in humid climates

Why Choose American Sentry Linden

• Columnar habit ideal for formal or space-conscious plantings
• Fragrant summer flowers that support pollinators
• Excellent tolerance to urban pollution and compacted soils
• Golden fall color and large leaves offer seasonal appeal
• A commanding focal point with strong vertical structure

American Sentry Linden offers classic shade, elegance, and resilience in a compact upright form�making it a dependable focal point for both public landscapes and private gardens seeking structure and summer beauty.