Sassafras albidum

The sassafras bark and roots were once used (and perhaps still are) for medicines, tea, and root-beer. Leaves are generally mitt-shaped but variable in form, turning yellow and purple in fall. Female trees have attractive spring flowers and blue-black berries (drupes) in the fall.

Size and Light Requirements

In full sun to partial shade, the sassafras will grow to 40 feet in height in 30 – 40 years.

Plant This Tree

You can get up to $100 back for planting this tree yourself through our tree rebate program.

Find Another Tree

All the trees in this guide have been selected by Casey Trees and are well adapted to the soil and conditions present in Washington, DC.