Sassafras Live Stakes

Sassafras is a deciduous tree prized for its pleasant fragrance and spectacular fall foliage. It is native to North America and is a favorite landscaping addition throughout much of the United States. It has unusual, three-lobed leaves that are soft green during spring and summer, gradually changing to shades of yellow, bronze, purple and red in fall. Vibrant, perfumed yellow blooms appear in early to mid-spring. On female trees these are replaced by bright blue berries at the end of the season and attract a variety of birds to the yard or garden. 

Sassafras tree reaches a height of 30 to 60 feet at maturity. Its canopy can spread to a width of up to 40 feet if allowed to grow unchecked. It thrives in U.S. Hardiness Zones 4 through 9 and is fast-growing, increasing its height by 12 to 24 feet each year. Sassafras prefers a full or partly sunny location and does well in a wide variety of soils, including wet, well-drained, acidic and rocky. It also tolerates periods of drought with no ill effects. 

Every part of the sassafras tree, from leaves to roots, has a pleasant, citrus-like aroma. It has long been used as an ingredient in homeopathic medicines. Its leaves add a pleasant flavor to various foods, such as salad, soup, stew, tea and candy. 

This lovely tree is a versatile landscape addition, offering both shade and ornamental interest. Its natural canopy form is rounded so pruning is only a necessity if you prefer to control the size of the tree. It can even be used as a privacy screen if multiple plantings are made and are kept pruned to shrub size. Sassafras requires very little care once its roots are established and will continue to add beauty to the landscape for many years to come.