Height: 30-60 ft

Form: Shrub to tree

Sassafras is native to the Eastern United States as a pioneer species in disturbed areas.

It prefers well-drained sandy soils, but is tolerant of a range of soils. This tree is suitable for use as a street tree or in naturalized areas.

This tree has uniquely shaped leaves that turn bright colors in the fall. It produces small fruits which are eaten by wildlife but is a dioecious tree, so male and female flowers are required to fruit. Many parts of this tree were used in traditional Native American medicine and cooking. The leaves are used to flavor gumbo as filé powder. The leaves and other parts of the tree have a spicy scent.