Malvaceae
English: Mallow family (includes Lindens)
Dutch: Kaasjeskruidfamilie (inclusief linden)
The Malvaceae is a large family comprising about 244 genera and 4,225 species. In the context of Northern European trees, the most important genus is Tilia (lindens/limes), which was formerly placed in its own family Tiliaceae.
Key Identifying Features (Tilia)
- Leaves: Simple, alternate, heart-shaped with serrated margins and asymmetric base
- Flowers: Small, fragrant, yellowish-white, hanging from a distinctive winged bract
- Fruits: Small nutlets attached to the bract, dispersed by wind
- Bark: Gray, smooth when young, becoming fissured with age
Parent: Plantae