Lime trees (Tilia spp.) are widely distributed and locally important members of northern temperate broad-leaved forests. In marked contrast to the largely uniform morphology of the genus its taxonomic treatment has become increasingly confused and controversial, with over one hundred species and numerous subspecies described. Using extensive data from field studies of natural populations around the world, this book clarifies the situation, proposing a revised taxonomy of 23 species and 14 subspecies. Detailed descriptions are provided for all recognised taxa and are accompanied by illustrations. Data from herbaria and cultivated trees are used to extend the analyses where appropriate and type specimens are included to stabilise nomenclature. Lime tree ecology is also considered, with an exploration of experimental and analytical data on regeneration, growth and reproduction in relation to climate and soils. Additional material includes a glossary of botanical terms and appendices of herbarium codes and relevant physical concepts.
• Simplifies the taxonomy of a notoriously confusing genus, providing stable and reliable names for biology, horticulture and forestry • Presents taxonomic analyses and data in accessible form, allowing judgement of the taxonomic revision with the aim of achieving stability • Covers biology, ecology and geographical distribution of lime trees, providing a valuable resource for future research
Contents
Preface and acknowledgements; 1. Introduction: the Tiliaceae and genus Tilia; 2. General morphology of Tilia; Appendix. Glossary of terms used in descriptions; 3. Cellular anatomy; 4. A brief history of taxonomy of the genus; 5. Taxonomic revision: concepts and methods of description; 6. Chromosome numbers, molecular biology and hybridization; 7. Geographic and ecological data; 8. European and west Asian taxa; 9. East Asian taxa 1: sections Endochrysea, Henryana and Anastraea; 10. East Asian taxa 2: section Astrophilyra; 11. American taxa; 12. Geological history of the genus; 13. Physiological ecology of Tilia; 14. Floral and reproductive ecology of Tilia; 15. Association of Tilia with human activity; 16. Propagation and cultivation; Appendix 1. Herbarium codes; Appendix 2. A brief explanation of physical and chemical terms and concepts used in the ecological sections; Bibliography; Index.
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