Linden leaves

Tilia cordata, T. platyphyllos

leaf

Tender, mucilaginous young leaves, mild as lettuce, picked in spring for salads.

Origin

Temperate Europe

Where to find it

On the linden trees of village squares, parks and avenues: pick the suckers at the foot of the trunk, within easy reach, away from traffic.

Season (United States)

April to May

Preparation

They are rinsed and eaten raw, whole or in strips, on their own or mixed with other greens; after spring, they toughen.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · ChlorophyllIn small amounts, not counted Mucilages

Did you know?

During food shortages, its leaves were dried and ground to stretch flour.