Basswood
Latin Name: Tilia americana
Family: Tiliaceae - the Linden family
Other Common Name(s): American Basswood, American Lime, American Linden, Beetree, Beetree Linden, Carolina Linden, Florida Basswood, Florida Linden, Limetree, Linden, Linn, Northern White Basswood, White Basswood
Domestic Hardwood
Suitable for Exterior/Interior Use
Interior Use Only
Uses
Apiary Supplies, Carving, Interior Trim, Food Packaging, Millwork, Mouldings, Novelties, Slack Cooperage, Toys, Venetian Blinds, Shutters, Veneer, Plywood, Musical Instruments
Distribution
Basswood trees grow with abundance throughout the eastern half of both Canada and the United States. Basswood prefers moist soil of valleys and uplands, it is usually found disbursed in hardwood forests. There are over 30 species of Tilia.
General Description: The sapwood tends to be wide and can be very white in color. The heartwood is a creamy white to light tan color, and is not always easily distinguishable from the sapwood. The grain is typically straight, with a fine uniform texture. Knots are uncommon.
Price Range ($ least expensive, $$$$$ most expensive):
$
Working Properties
Machining: Good
Nailing: Good
Gluing: Good
Screwing: Fair
Finishing: Fair
Physical Properties
Weight (lbs/BF): 2.333
Specific Gravity: 0.33-0.44
Modulus of Rupture (psi): 5,100-8,700
Modulus of Elasticity (1,000 psi): 1,017-1,507
Side Hardness (lbs): 410
Additional Information
Basswood is one of the "softer" hardwood species, and has relatively low strength properties. While nails can be easily driven into the wood, because of the softness of the wood it does not hold them well. This species glues and finishes well. Wood conditioner is recommended prior to staining. To avoid creating a fuzzy texture when sanding, use a sanding sealer. The workable nature of Basswood makes it a popular lumber choice, dating back to Medieval times. Despite being known as Lime Tree, this species has nothing to do with limes.
Item Availability
4/4 FAS
5/4 FAS
6/4 FAS
8/4 FAS
10/4 FAS
12/4 FAS
16/4 FAS