Sassafras is a colorful tree that grows in part shade. Early in the spring its branches will be covered in very small yellow flowers. It produces three leaf shapes, including a simple, unlobed leaf, a leaf with two lobes that resembles a mitten, and a leaf with three lobes. Leaves turn orange and red in fall.
Pollinator Type
Bees, flies, wasps, beetles
Plant Type
Deciduous tree
Zone
4 to 9
Height
20-60 ft
Spread
25 to 40 ft
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil
Bloom Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
April, May
Design Considerations
Fast growing tree. Spreads through suckers to form colonies. Sassafras is allelopathic, so it may inhibit growth of neighboring plants.
Care and Maintenance
Prune to keep suckers in check.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Transplant from nursery container.
Commercial Availability
Rarely available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Spicebush
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Leaves turn yellow, orange, or red. Small blue berries are held in clusters on red stalks.
Growth habit
When young, takes on a shrub-like appearance, but takes on a pyramidal shape as it ages.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
