Sassafras is prized for many interesting characteristics: all parts of this tree are aromatic, it produces three distinct leaf shapes, and it boasts bright orange, yellow and red foliage in the fall. Even if you haven't heard of Sassafras before, you might just recognize it by its two to three-lobed leaves. The two-lobed leaves look like a winter mitten, and the three-lobed are reminiscent of a dinosaur footprint (trust us, it's true!). Before the leaves even emerge, Sassafras branches light up with small but bright yellow flowers that ultimately give way to clusters of dark blue berries in the fall. In the wild, Sassafras trees are often found in small groves as the trees spread by root suckers, making this a wonderful border, natural fence, or screening plant in the garden.
Conditions: Full to part sun; moist, well-drained soils
Size: 30’-60’ tall; 25’-40’ wide
Zone: 4 – 9
Wildlife Value: Larval host for several butterfly species, including the Spicebush Swallowtail; fruits are eaten by small animals and many species of birds
Photo: David Korbonits