Tilia japonica, a deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves that are used in herbal medicine, food, tea, and crafts

Tilia japonica, also known as the Japanese linden or Japanese lime, is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to Japan and China. It is known for its heart-shaped leaves, fragrant yellow flowers, and dense shade.

Tilia japonica leaves are typically 5-8.5 cm long and 4-7.5 cm wide. They are dark green above with a dull shine and pale green or glaucous beneath. The leaves have sharply serrate margins and cordate bases. Young leaves may have some pubescence on the leaf veins underneath.

Tilia japonica leaves are used in a variety of ways, including:

• Herbal medicine: Tilia japonica leaves are used in traditional herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion.
• Food: Tilia japonica leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. They are sometimes used in salads, soups, and stews.
• Tea: Tilia japonica leaves can be used to make a tea that is said to have calming and relaxing properties.
• Crafts: Tilia japonica leaves can be used to make a variety of crafts, such as baskets and hats.

In Japan, Tilia japonica leaves are known as "hooba" and are used to make a popular sweet called "hooba-manju". Hooba-manju is a steamed cake filled with a sweet bean paste and wrapped in a Tilia japonica leaf.

Tilia japonica leaves are a valuable resource with a variety of uses. They are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden or landscape.

Ref.:

• https://bard.google.com/