The shutters made here at Stewart Shutters are made from 100% American Basswood. Just what is basswood? American Basswood, also know as Tilia Americana or the Bee Tree is a tree from the linden family. It is native to North America. An average tree grows more than 80 feet tall. Because basswood is a soft, light wood it is especially usefully for carving and sculptures. If you’re at the Santa Monica Pier, take note of the beautiful creatures found on the carousel. Those creatures are made from beautiful, durable, basswood.