Sassafras albidium

Product Info

Sassafras (Sassafras albidium)
Laurel Family

Sassafras is a three season tree with high wildlife value. Greenish yellow blooms appear in early spring before leaves appear. They are followed shortly after by 3 different leaf shapes, most notably the mitten shape. Leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Blue fruit on red cups are very attractive, but sometimes hard to find because the birds eat them so quickly. This is a smaller tree that is great for the home landscape. It will form a thicket over time, making a great hedge. If spreading is not desired, cut back new suckers. Plants are dioecious, with male and female flowers occuring on separate plants. Host plant to many species of moths and butterflies, but notable to the Spicebush Swallowtail.

Blooms:  Yellow/green, 2-3 weeks, March-April, plants are dioecious
Leaves: Matte green leaves have multiple forms, with the most common being the mitten, known for fall colors of yellow, orange, and red
Height: 35-50’
Space: 35-50’
Soil: Average-Moist
Exposure: Full sun-Part shade
Fauna: High value plant–birds love the berries, host plant to dozens of moths and butterflies
Seeds: Very attractive navy blue fruit are perched on red cups and stems, fruit is born on female trees only
Deer Resistance:Medium
Zone: 4-9
Native Status: NC native, common across the state
Provenance: NC, seed grown