Fairland Green - Limes
Tilia sp.
Lime trees form a triangle around The Fairland, acting as a green gateway and enhancing the approach to Wymondham from the southerly direction, welcoming people in. The height and form of the Limes is attractive all year round, from spring with their boxing glove-shaped buds and heart-shaped leaves with a pointed tip, through summer with their long papery flower bracts and clusters of flowers, to yellow autumn leaves and the majestic outline they leave in winter. You will also see some mature Horse Chestnuts, and one Sweet Chestnut planted to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.
Limes provide impressive shade, are commonly planted in parks and by roadsides and have high wildlife value. Their fragrant flowers attract many insects, especially bees who enjoy their nectar. Aphids feed on their leaves and are a food source for hoverflies, ladybirds and birds. Bees and ants both drink aphid honeydew.
There are 3 species of Lime in the UK: Large-leaved Lime, Small-leaved Lime and Common Lime which appears to be a hybrid of the two. The word ‘lime’ is believed to have come from the Old English word ‘lind’. The Lime tree is associated with fertility, love, justice and peace and is also known as the linden tree.