The aromatic Sassafras is a 30-60’, deciduous tree with horizontal branching in cloud-like tiers that produce three distinct leaf forms (mitten, oval, or 3-lobed). Yellow, weakly fragrant flowers appear in April and dark blue drupes mature on female plants only. Birds are attracted to the fruit and leaves provide a larval food source for swallowtail butterflies. Fall color is spectacular with shades of yellow, orange, and scarlet. Adaptable to many conditions, but prefers moist, well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. Tolerant of black walnut trees.
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