Sassafras, Bare Root

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)

Sassafras is a small native tree with aromatic leaves, mitten-shaped foliage, and brilliant fall color. It supports butterflies, birds, and traditional herbal uses. Often found in woodland edges and regenerating landscapes, sassafras brings scent, color, and habitat into diverse plantings.

Key Characteristics

• Larval host for butterflies - Supports spicebush swallowtail, tiger swallowtail, and other native Lepidoptera.
• Traditional culinary and medicinal uses - Leaves are used in Creole cooking as fil- powder; roots and bark were historically used in teas and tonics.
• Brilliant fall foliage - Leaves turn orange, yellow, and red, often all on the same tree, creating a striking autumn display.
• Fruits feed wildlife - Blue-black drupes are eaten by birds like thrushes and wild turkey.
• Colony-forming for restoration - Spreads by root suckers to stabilize soil and recolonize disturbed ground.

Product Details

• Native Range: Eastern and Central U.S.
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium-dry to medium
• Mature Height: 30-60 ft
• Bloom Time: April-May
• Bloom Color: Yellow-green
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Sassafras offers a rich combination of cultural history, wildlife value, and native beauty. Ideal for woodland gardens and food forest edges.