Basswood (Tilia americana) bark makes excellent and very
strong cordage.
The first part of this page consists of a number of
photographs to aid in identification of Basswood. For more info on
identifying Basswood, please visit the Ontario Trees website.
The second part of this page shows the cordage aspect of Bassswood.
IDENTIFICATION: For more info on identifying Basswood, please visit the Ontario Trees website.
Basswood leaves.
Closer view of a leaf. Note the
numerous obvious teeth, and the roundish shape.
Young leaves in the spring
(mid-May)
Basswood bark. It is often said
that Basswood develops horizontal patterns of holes
resembling sapsucker holes. This is true, but sapsuckers DO
like Basswood. This photo shows sapsucker holes. The holes
that develop naturally on Basswood bark are nowhere near as
obvious as these.
A grove of three Basswood trees
growing close together. This is a common trait of this
species. If you cut down a Basswood tree, the stump quickly
sends up numerous young shoots, each of which can grow into
a tree.
Basswood bark typically divides
into vertical plates.
Basswood is ideal for carving, as it
doesn't splinter easily.
Another form of Basswood bark;
more ridged. Sort of resembles that of
Red Oak.
Winter twig, showing the large
buds. The buds are edible, although somewhat mucilaginous.
Another winter twig.
Flower buds in early June.
A very young Basswood tree. Note
the large leaves.
An older tree.
CORDAGE FROM BASSWOOD:
Basswood bark makes excellent
strong cordage. It consists of long interwoven fibres that
form an interlocking weave. It peels readily from the tree
and is easy to work with.
Bark from dead basswood limbs provides the best
material. The best dead limbs are ones that have been dead
for a week or two. Any longer and the bark will have dried
out a lot.
This photos shows how the bark
peels in a nice long string.
