Sassafras
Sassafras albidum
Deciduous TreeAbout Sassafras
Sassafras is a unique native deciduous tree recognized for its three distinct leaf shapes -- unlobed, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed -- all of which may appear on the same tree. Historically, its root bark was used to make tea and root beer flavoring. It produces brilliant orange, red, and yellow fall color.
Quick Facts
How to Identify Sassafras
- Three distinct leaf shapes on the same tree: oval, mitten, and three-lobed
- Bright green, aromatic leaves and twigs with a spicy root-beer scent
- Brilliant orange, scarlet, and yellow fall color
- Dark reddish-brown, deeply furrowed bark
- Small, dark blue berries on bright red stalks in fall
Care Guide
- Water regularly during establishment; moderately drought-tolerant when mature
- Prune suckers at the base to maintain a single-trunk tree form
- Transplant when young; the deep taproot makes moving larger trees difficult
- Minimal fertilization needed
- Relatively pest and disease free
Known Issues (1)
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