The American Linden and American Sentry Linden are both varieties of the Basswood tree. While they share many similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two.
One noticeable difference is in their shape and growth habit. The American Linden tree starts off with a pyramidal shape when young, but as it matures, it develops a more rounded and spreading crown. On the other hand, the American Sentry Linden has a more symmetrical and upright growth habit. It maintains a narrow, pyramidal shape throughout its life, making it a popular choice for landscaping purposes where space may be limited.
Another difference lies in their branch structure. The American Sentry Linden has a very uniform and well-balanced branch arrangement, giving it a strong foundation and a pleasing overall profile. This makes it an aesthetically appealing choice for landscape design, especially when used as a focal point or to create a formal look.
In terms of foliage, both varieties have heart-shaped green leaves. These leaves are medium to dark green in color and have a serrated edge. However, the American Sentry Linden tends to have a denser foliage arrangement, giving it a fuller and more compact appearance compared to the American Linden.
When it comes to size, the American Linden is known to grow larger than the American Sentry Linden. The American Linden can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet, with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. In contrast, the American Sentry Linden typically grows to a height of around 40 to 50 feet, with a spread of 20 to 30 feet. This makes the American Sentry Linden a more suitable choice for smaller spaces or areas where overhead clearance is limited.
Both varieties are known for their fragrant flowers, which bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers of the American Linden are small, yellowish-white, and are borne on drooping clusters called racemes. The American Sentry Linden also produces similar flowers, but they may be slightly smaller in size compared to the American Linden.
In terms of adaptability, both the American Linden and American Sentry Linden are hardy trees that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. They prefer moist, well-drained soil but can also tolerate some drought once established. They are also relatively tolerant of urban pollution, making them suitable for planting in urban environments.
While the American Linden and American Sentry Linden share many similarities in terms of their heart-shaped green leaves and fragrant flowers, they differ in their growth habit, branch structure, size, and overall appearance. Understanding these differences can help in selecting the right variety based on the specific needs and constraints of a particular landscape or garden.
