Species sassafras

sassafras

Sassafras albidum

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is a deciduous tree found in rich, moist woods and soil in the eastern United States. It has a single or multiple stems and large, three-lobed, greenish-yellow leaves. The roots of the sassafras tree contain aromatic oils which have been used for centuries to flavor root beer, tea, candy, sauces, and other dishes. Its fragrant yellow flowers bloom in the spring and its brightly colored red and yellow fruits ripen in the fall. The bark, when dried and powdered, is an ingredient in many traditional herbal recipes as it is believed to have medicinal properties. Its wood can be used for furniture, tool handles, and woodcarvings. Whether you’re looking to cook with it, treat an ailment, or craft something beautiful, sassafras is an excellent choice.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Greenish-yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay

Fruits:

blue,purple Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water your sassafras (Sassafras albidum) deeply once or twice a week during the active growing season. During hotter months, it may need to be watered more frequently. Allow the soil to nearly dry in between waterings. You should aim to keep the root balls slightly moist, but not soaking wet or dry. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. If possible, water at the root level or use a soaker hose or slow-release watering bag. This helps to keep moisture off the leaves and prevents fungal infections. In the winter, it is best to decrease watering frequency and let the soil dry out between waterings.

sunlight

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive. They should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for best growth and health. The ideal location for sassafras plants is in full sun, without being shaded by buildings or trees. During the summer months, sassafras can tolerate more sun, while in the cooler winter months, partial shade can be beneficial. When the temperatures are extreme in either direction, midday sun should be avoided. If sassafras does not receive enough sunlight, it may grow poorly, resulting in spindly and weak branches.

pruning

Pruning of sassafras (Sassafras albidum) should take place in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant. Pruning should be moderate, removing only a few stems near the ground level at any 1 time. If needed, pruning higher up on the branches can also be done, but do so with caution and utmost care. Avoid over-pruning, as this will reduce the plants' health and vigor. If you notice that the tree is not growing as it should, remove any dead, diseased, or crossed stems and branches. You can also use pruning to shape the tree and control overall size.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting sassafras fruits typically begins in September and continues through October.

Starts Flowering

Sassafras albidum typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map