Small-leaved Lime

Description

Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata) belongs to the Malvaceae family and is native to Europe. It thrives in Mixed woods, Parks, Gardens, Hills environments across regions including Italy, France, Germany, Balkans, Scandinavia.

Botanically, Small-leaved Lime is flowers calming tea. Young leaves vegetable. Sweet sap spring.. It is also known locally as Tiglio.

The edible parts include Flowers, Leaves, Sap. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during July, June and May.

Nutritionally, Small-leaved Lime stands out for its Calcium (400.0mg, 31% DV), Vitamin K (15.0mg, 12% DV) and Vitamin C (7.0mg, 8% DV). It also provides 0.5g protein and 1.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Small-leaved Lime offers a Floral sweet honey flavor profile. Flower tea raw leaves sap. Common culinary applications include flower tea, leaf salad, sap. Popular preparations include Linden tea, Linden leaf salad, Sauteed greens with garlic, Wild green pesto.

For storage, dried flowers 12mo.

Safety note: No toxicity. Antinutrient content is mucilages. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect small-leaved lime during May, Jun and Jul. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically mixed woods, parks, gardens, hills. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Europe communities have long valued small-leaved lime as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, small-leaved lime pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

flower tea, leaf salad, sap

Storage

Dried flowers 12mo

Recipes

• Linden tea
• Linden leaf salad
• Sauteed greens with garlic
• Wild green pesto
• Leafy green soup
• Wild winter pesto made from Small-leaved Lime
• Traditional Small-leaved Lime soup
• Small-leaved Lime and potato frittata

Where It Grows