The hygroscopic and moisture-dependent mechanical characteristics of small-leaved lime wood ( Tilia cordata ) were investigated experimentally. This study includes sorption, swelling and shrinkage experiments, as well as tension and compression tests in the three principal anatomical directions at four relative humidity levels. Four sample groups from trees of three different locations in Germany were used. The findings are comparable to those of earlier studies. The hygro-expansion anisotropy is relatively small. Young’s moduli at tension/compression decreased by about 52 %/64 % in radial, 19 %/48 % in tangential and 16 %/58 % in longitudinal direction for an increase of moisture content from 10 % (65 % RH) to 20 % (95 % RH). Tension strengths/compression yield stresses decreased by about 25 %/45 % in radial, 9 %/42 % in tangential, and 32 % (compression) in longitudinal direction, respectively. These parameters increased with an increasing density. Based on the mechanical tests, Young’s modulus, tension strength and compression yield stress were derived as density- and moisture-dependent material model parameters. Shear modulus and shear strength were estimated by a theoretical approach. The experimental and modelling study was accompanied by a literature survey on characteristics of lime wood relevant for hygro-mechanical material modelling.