Mongolian lime (Tilia mongolica)

Also known as: Mongolian Lime, Mongolian Linden

The Mongolian lime (Tilia mongolica) is a favored ornamental tree due to its compact size, perfect for gardens. Its distinct serrated leaves provide seasonal interest, starting as bronze, transitioning to green in summer, and turning yellow in the fall. The name "Mongolian lime" and the species epithet "mongolica" highlight its origins in Mongolia.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Mongolian lime

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

15 m

Spread

12 m

Leaf Color

Yellow Green

Flower Size

0.8-1.0 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Mongolian lime

Quickly Identify Mongolian lime

Exfoliating bark exposing lighter gray layers beneath.

Leaves with 3-5 lobes, serrated margins, dark green color.

Clusters of 6-12 fragrant, pale yellow flowers hanging elegantly.

Distinctive obovoid, grayish nutlet with hairy, leathery texture.

Smooth, light gray-brown stem with alternating branching pattern.

Scientific Classification of Mongolian lime

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

Family

Mallow

Genus

Lindens

Species

Mongolian lime

Planting and Growing of Mongolian lime

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Mongolian lime?

For Tilia mongolica, ensure that the soil remains moist without being waterlogged. A moderate amount of 500 ml per watering should suffice, ensuring that the water reaches the root system but does not leave the soil overly saturated.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Mongolian lime? ›

What should I do if my Mongolian lime is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Mongolian lime? ›

How to save an overwatered Mongolian lime? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mongolian lime?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Tilia mongolica thrives in partial to full sun environments. Adequate sunlight ensures strong structural growth and vibrant foliage, contributing to its ornamental value and ecological benefits.

What is the best type of light for Tilia mongolica? ›

How can I ensure the plant gets ideal sunlight? ›

What are the benefits of proper sunlight on this plant? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mongolian lime?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range to cultivate Tilia mongolica lies between 50°F and 77°F. This range provides a balance that supports healthy growth and development. Within this range, the plant can photosynthesize efficiently, maintain proper hydration, and resist stress. Ensuring temperatures remain within this bracket helps to achieve optimal leaf and flower production, promoting overall plant vitality.

What Soil is Best for Mongolian lime?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Tilia mongolica prefers well-drained soil to prevent root rot, which can be detrimental to its health. Good drainage helps ensure that the roots have access to oxygen, which is essential for the plant's respiration and growth. This plant thrives in nutrient-rich soils, which support robust growth and vibrant foliage. A rich soil composition provides essential macro and micronutrients that promote the overall health and resilience of the plant. While well-drained, the soil should also retain enough moisture to prevent the plant from drying out between watering. Proper moisture levels ensure that the plant can consistently access water, which is critical for its photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.

How to Fertilize Mongolian lime?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Tilia mongolica, use a balanced fertilizer formula, like a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, and apply about 0.5 to 1 pound of fertilizer per 100 square feet. Ensure the fertilizer is distributed evenly around the tree's root zone.

How to Prune Mongolian lime?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Look for branches that appear unhealthy, injured, or dead. Prioritize removing these as they can be pathways for insects and disease, detracting from the tree's health and vigor. Start by identifying the main branches that form the scaffold of the tree and focus on maintaining an open center. This allows better air circulation and light penetration, promoting healthy growth and reducing pest issues. Cut branches at a 45-degree angle near the branch collar, which is the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. This promotes proper healing and minimizes the risk of decay. Avoid removing more than one-third of the total foliage at one time. Over-pruning can stress the tree and lead to excessive non-flowering growth called 'water sprouts'. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Mongolian lime plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Spring, Late Spring

Start by soaking Tilia mongolica seeds in water for 24 hours to improve germination. After soaking, let them dry on paper towels before planting them in seed trays filled with a mix of peat and perlite. Cover lightly with soil and water gently.

Select healthy, vigorous shoots from a mature Tilia mongolica plant. Use clean pruning shears to cut 15-20 cm long sections. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends in a rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.

For grafting, select a healthy scion from Tilia mongolica and a compatible rootstock. Make a clean cut on both and join them using a grafting technique like whip-and-tongue or cleft grafting. Secure with grafting tape and keep the graft moist until it heals.

How to Repot Mongolian lime plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Tilia mongolica, known for its appealing foliage, typically shows signs like roots emerging from drainage holes or reduced growth, indicating the need for repotting. Optimal repotting occurs during the growth spurts of spring or the soil-cooling season of autumn.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This allows room for root expansion, promoting healthy growth, while preventing excessive soil moisture and potential root rot.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil to ensure proper aeration and moisture retention. This type of soil provides essential nutrients and supports the structural integrity needed for the optimal growth of Tilia mongolica.