American basswood (Tilia americana)

American basswood (Tilia americana) and European linden (Tilia cordata) can be distinguished by their bark characteristics.

- **American Basswood (Tilia americana)**: The bark starts off smooth and gray in younger trees, developing into a more furrowed and ridged texture as the tree ages. The mature bark typically features narrow, flat-topped ridges and deep furrows.

- **European Linden (Tilia cordata)**: While young trees also have smooth, grayish bark, older trees develop a finely fissured pattern that may appear somewhat scaly. A key distinguishing feature is an orange hue that can often be seen in the valleys of the bark.

In essence, look for a more deeply furrowed and ridged bark in American basswood, whereas European linden may show a finer, scaly texture with an orange tint in the bark valleys.