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Sassafras albidum

Sassafras

• »  The berries are an important food source for many birds
• »  Attracts butterflies
• »  Host plant for many species
• »  Fragrant yellow flowers in spring
• »  Can be used for tea, oil, and soap making
• »  Bright green foliage
• »  Bright yellow-orange and red fall color
• »  Excellent for naturalized plantings or screens
• »  Native

• Category:Tree
• Breeder:American Beauties Native Plants
• Hardiness Zone:4-9
• Height:30-60 ft
• Spread:25-40 ft
• Bloom Color: Yellow Shades

Sassafras trees are valued for their fragrant spring blooms that attract butterflies. It is also a host plant for a variety of butterflies. Bright green foliage adorns the interesting, horizontal branches and turns a striking yellow, orange and red in the fall. Female flowers produce dark blue fruits held on red stalks that are relished by birds.  Trees can sucker but if a single stem is desired suckers are easily mowed. Sassafras has been cultivated since the early 1600’s for it’s use as food, medicine and for building.