These thick shrubs or small trees are recognized by the hairy twigs and leaves which are almost white underneath. Bur Oak Recognized by its distinctive fringed, burlike acorns. Leaves narrowly oval with broad, round tips. American Basswood Basswoods, also called linden trees, are often favored as shade trees. While the dark red, astringent fruits are unpalatable when ripe, birds do eat them.
Leaves change early in season to yellow red.
When dried and moistened, the bark can be used as a cough medicine or poultice. The wood is used in furniture and cabinetry, the bark and fruit for cough syrup, wine and jelly. A brilliant display of color is seen in the mid-fall season when the leaves turn fiery scarlet, orange or yellow. An important timber species used to make furniture, floors, pulpwood, fence posts and pilings.