Silver linden is a large, deciduous tree with a broad-columnar habit and upright branching, and grows 50 to 70 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide. Foliage is broadly heart-shaped, and glossy green above and silvery-white below. The foliage flutters in the slightest breeze, showcasing the silver and green leaf colors. Fragrant pale yellow flowers appear June to July. When a tree is in full bloom, bees often visit in such abundant numbers that humming can be heard many feet from the tree. Flowers are followed by small nutlets that ripen in late summer. Fall color is an undistinguished pale green to pale yellow.
Grow in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers fertile, well-drained loams, but adapts to a wide range of soil conditions. Best drought resistance of any of the lindens. Good tolerance for urban conditions.