The first part of this page consists of a number of photographs to aid in identification of Basswood. For more info on identifying Basswood, please visit the Ontario Trees website.

The second part of this page shows the cordage aspect of Bassswood.

IDENTIFICATION:
For more info on identifying Basswood, please visit the Ontario Trees website.

Basswood leaves.

Closer view of a leaf. Note the numerous obvious teeth, and the roundish shape.

Young leaves in the spring (mid-May)

Basswood bark. It is often said that Basswood develops horizontal patterns of holes resembling sapsucker holes. This is true, but sapsuckers DO like Basswood. This photo shows sapsucker holes. The holes that develop naturally on Basswood bark are nowhere near as obvious as these.

A grove of three Basswood trees growing close together. This is a common trait of this species. If you cut down a Basswood tree, the stump quickly sends up numerous young shoots, each of which can grow into a tree.

Basswood bark typically divides into vertical plates.

Basswood is ideal for carving, as it doesn't splinter easily.

Another form of Basswood bark; more ridged. Sort of resembles that of Red Oak.

Winter twig, showing the large buds. The buds are edible, although somewhat mucilaginous.

Another winter twig.

Flower buds in early June.

A very young Basswood tree. Note the large leaves.

An older tree.

CORDAGE FROM BASSWOOD:

Basswood bark makes excellent strong cordage. It consists of long interwoven fibres that form an interlocking weave. It peels readily from the tree and is easy to work with.

Bark from dead basswood limbs provides the best material. The best dead limbs are ones that have been dead for a week or two. Any longer and the bark will have dried out a lot.

This photos shows how the bark peels in a nice long string.

A closeup view of the bark fibres.

A length of finished Basswood bark cordage.

Survival Containers Cordage

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