Sassafras Trees

The Sassafras Trees is among the more iconic members of the native North American deciduous family. It produces lovely spring blooms and unique leaf designs. The aromatic type matures to 35-60 feet.

Sassafras Trees Host Swallowtail Butterfly Species

Possessing a brown mahogany bark, it spreads in unchecked landscapes and hosts various swallowtail butterfly species. A female one typically enjoys abundant yellow-green flowers in mid-spring, followed by blue fruits along the stalk during late summer. The male one produces fewer flowers, although both showcase outstanding fall foliage.

It Reaches Around 60 Feet Tall

Also referred to as “Sassafras albidum” in botanical circles, it flourishes in full sun to partial shade. It thrives across the U.S. from New England to the West of the Great Lakes, deep into Eastern Texas, and as far south as Florida. Along with reaching heights of 60 feet, it offers property owners a canopy that extends up to 40 feet in width. This facet makes it a sought-after shade type that requires little to no maintenance. These are fast facts to consider if you plan to integrate one into your landscape.

Light Exposure: It typically requires 6 hours of direct sun daily to reach its full potential. It may also grow effectively in partial shade areas with at least 4 hours of direct sun daily.

Hardiness: It tends to resist most infestations and blights. Pests of concern may include the Japanese beetle. It grows well in Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, and Zone 9.

 This Tree Loves Acidic Soil

Soil Conditions: It responds well to moist, acidic, and well-drained soil. It manages clay, sand, and loam well, and a large one can produce a root system near the surface for offshoot plants. It can also tolerate dry and alkaline soil conditions. However, these shrubs do not fare well in salty soils and those that need better drainage.

This Tree Can Be A Shrub Or A Tree

A Sassafras Trees can present as single-trunked or multi-stemmed and can flourish in a shrub colony while utilizing a single root system.  People can continuously use its flowers, leaves, and other parts without negatively impacting its expansive root system.