The American Basswood is a stately and graceful hardwood tree that grows abundantly in rich moist soil found in the eastern half of North America. The heavily foliaged crown produces dark green heart-shaped leaves that reveal lighter colored glistening undersides when blown by a breeze. Also known as American Linden and American Lime, Basswoods are widely planted as street trees in cities and towns where they are prized for providing plentiful shade and a profusion of tiny cream-colored fragrant flowers.