The lime tree is popular in urban areas and especially in London, where it is often seen as a street tree. However, it is rarely allowed to grow to its full height which can be 50 metres or 164 feet. It comes in many varieties, but the most common are the native small-leaved and large leaved limes, and the common lime, a hybrid of the other two and most usually found type in cities. London tree surgeons deal with this tree frequently and are experts in maintaining and protecting them.
How Long Can Lime Trees Live For?
Lime trees can live for 500 years, and some live far longer than that. A lime tree in Nuremberg was dated back 900 years in 1900, and a Gloucestershire lime tree that grows in Westonbirt Arboretum is thought to be at least 2000 years old.
Lime Trees and the Symbolism of Love
Because of the shape of the leaves the lime tree is associated with the heart and all its symbolism, which explains its association with the principles of Love, Fidelity and Justice. … In Greek mythology, the mother of the centaur Chiron (who taught medicine to mortals) was called Philyra, which means lime tree in Greek.
Practical Uses for Lime Wood
Lime wood is perfect for fine carving as it works well with hand tools, does not warp and can be finished to a beautiful lustre. Grinling Gibbons used it to carve quire stalls in St Paul’s Cathedral.
Young lime leaves can be eaten and the fresh flowers have a sweet honey aroma and can be used to make Linden tea.
The lime does have some undesirable characteristics. It often has suckers growing at its base and where branches have fallen off, which can give it an ungainly appearance. It is also popular habitat for aphids, which create a sticky substance called honey dew which can collect on benches or cars left underneath them for any length of time.
How to Get Help With Your London Lime Tree
Tree surgery encompasses several different beneficial services. In some cases, it’s designed to improve aesthetic appeal by shaping and trimming trees. In others, it’s more about safety – such as when tree surgeons remove large branches above your home or cut large dead limbs from trees before they have a chance to fall.
If you have a lime tree in your South West London garden and have any concerns about it, Take A Bough Tree Care would be delighted to offer free, expert advice on any aspect of Lime tree care. We operate in locations such as Wimbledon, Wandsworth, and many other places in the South West London area, so give us a call today on the number above for friendly advice and a free quote.
