Sassafras Tree Mystique

With its unique charm and fragrant allure, the Sassafras tree is significant in American history and folklore. This beautiful deciduous tree, known for its aromatic leaves and roots, can be found throughout the eastern United States, gracing woodlands with its distinctively lobed foliage. Each leaf, whether mitten-shaped, three-lobed, or oval, contributes to a textured canopy that shifts to stunning shades of orange, gold, and scarlet in the fall. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Sassafras tree's natural oils and wood have long been associated with traditional uses, from culinary flavors to medicinal applications. Its history, growth habits, and potential make it an intriguing choice for gardeners.

Is Sassafras Tree Legal?

The legality of the Sassafras tree has been a topic of some confusion, mainly due to the use of its oil, which was historically an ingredient in root beer. Sassafras oil, extracted from the bark and roots, contains safrole, a compound once widely used for flavoring. However, the (F.D.A.) banned safrole in foods and commercial products in the 1960s due to studies suggesting it might have carcinogenic properties. As a result, some people mistakenly believe the tree itself is illegal.

The tree, however, remains entirely legal to grow, own, and cultivate. While the essential oil derived from Sassafras roots is no longer used for culinary purposes, the leaves are still commonly dried and ground to make filé powder, a critical thickening ingredient in Cajun and Creole gumbo dishes. Sassafras trees thrive in landscapes and natural settings, offering gardeners a piece of history with their foliage and fragrance.

Is Sassafras Legal to Buy?

Yes, it is entirely legal to buy Sassafras trees in most regions. These trees are often sold in nurseries or specialty plant shops that cater to native or heritage plants. Gardeners looking to add an aromatic and visually appealing native tree to their landscape can easily find Sassafras for sale, especially in areas where the tree is naturally found. When buying a Sassafras tree, purchasing from a reputable nursery that offers healthy, disease-free specimens is essential.

In terms of its uses, the dried leaves are still legally used to create filé powder, adding a unique flavor to traditional Southern cooking. While the oil extracted from the roots or bark may be restricted in some commercial applications due to safrole content, the tree's other components remain valuable. For enthusiasts interested in history and traditional uses, growing this tree provides a connection to the past without stepping into any legal grey areas.

How Long Does a Sassafras Tree Take to Grow?

Sassafras trees are known for being moderately fast growers under the right conditions. When planted in favorable soil, typically well-drained, acidic, and loamy, they can grow 12 to 24 inches annually. Young saplings establish quickly, especially in sunny locations, although they will tolerate partial shade. Their growth rate and vigor often lead them to become small trees or large shrubs within a few years.

A Sassafras tree usually reaches 60 feet tall in the landscape. With good care, it can become a lovely focal point in the garden, displaying different forms of foliage that lend an ever-changing appearance through the seasons. Its blooms emerge in early spring before the leaves, producing clusters of small, yellow-green blooms that add subtle color and attract pollinators. As the tree matures, it may produce blue-black, berry-like fruit that appeals to birds and wildlife.

Sassafras trees can live for many decades, providing seasonal beauty and natural charm year after year. For gardeners who appreciate watching a tree grow and evolve, the Sassafras tree offers a rewarding journey.

Where Can I Get a Sassafras Tree?

Finding a Sassafras tree for your garden may be easier than you think. Many local nurseries, particularly those specializing in native plants, carry Sassafras trees. If the tree is not readily available at a local garden center, you can often find reputable online nurseries that sell seedlings or young trees. Be sure to source from suppliers knowledgeable about native species and can provide specific advice on planting and caring for Sassafras in your climate.

If you live in an area where Sassafras grows naturally, you might also come across seedlings in the wild. In this case, always seek permission before transplanting any wild tree, as local regulations may protect certain natural areas. Transplanting should also be done cautiously to ensure the seedling has the best chance of survival in its new location. Digging up a wild tree can sometimes disrupt its delicate root system, so it's typically more successful to purchase a nursery-grown plant.

The Sassafras tree is a unique addition to landscaping, offering more than just beauty. Its storied past, fascinating uses, and distinct foliage provide a touch of the wild and historic to any garden setting. Those who plant Sassafras will find themselves caring for a living relic that has graced American forests for centuries, a tree that stands out for its beauty and cultural significance. Whether you grow it for its colorful foliage, historical association, or fragrant leaves, the Sassafras tree is a beautiful choice for any gardener.