Sassafras Tree (Sassafras Albidum)

Description: Common sassafras is an aromatic deciduous flowering tree that is found in all areas of North Carolina except the higher mountains. In early to mid-spring, small, bright yellow-green flower clusters are borne in 2-inch stalks on separate male and female trees. Female trees produce a blue, fleshy drupe that is borne in a red cup attached to a red stalk. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow to orange to red. The tree is a member of the Lauraceae or laurel family. The common sassafras is native to southwestern Maine to central Michigan, southeastern Iowa to eastern Texas, and east and central Florida. They can be found in woodlands, abandoned fields, groves, and along fences and roadsides. The genus name, Sassafras, is most likely an adaption from a Native American name. The epithet, albidum, means "whitish," and references the undersides of the tree's leaves. This tree prefers well-drained sandy, acidic soils but will adapt to other soils if well-drained. It will grow in sun to partial shade and is drought tolerant once established. A large taproot makes the transplanting of established trees difficult. It tends to want to sucker repeatedly and will spread to form thickets. If a single-trunk tree is desired, these suckers will need to be removed. Sassafras can be pruned and kept at shrub size by cutting them to the ground every 2-3 years. This tree also needs to be protected from extreme winter weather.

Price: 17.99 USD

Location: McMinnville, Tennessee

End Time: 2025-01-27T20:46:22.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD