Linden, also known as Basswood and Lime, is a soft wood tree native to Europe, North America and some parts of Asia. In Europe and North America, linden trees are planted in large numbers as sidewalk and shade trees in many cities. At bloom time, the multitudes of papery, cream-colored flowers billow in the breeze, carrying a sweet scent for some distance. Linden flower water is an old-fashioned astringent splash and facial toner made from the blossoms. The leaf and flower together are also used to add scent to perfumes and cosmetics, as well as a mildly sweet flavor to tea blends.