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Sassafras Tree

Sassafras variifolium

  • Mitten-Shaped Leaves Release Delightful Fragrance When Crushed, Attracting Spicebush Swallowtails
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
  • Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant
  • Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Butterflies
  • Stunning Yellow and Red Fall Foliage
Regular price $9790
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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Native, Flowering, Fragrant, Fall Color/Interest, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Thornless, Drought resistant
Hardiness Zone 4a to 9b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 40-60 ft
Width 20-40 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Medium
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Green, Yellow
Native Yes
Native To Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia
+27 moreshow less
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Sassafras variifolium
Species variifolium
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR
A
Ashley
Beautiful tree

Great packaging and prices!

Hi Ashley,

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you were pleased with both our packaging and prices. We take great care in making sure your beautiful tree arrives safe and sound, so your feedback truly means a lot to us. If you ever need any tips or guidance on the care of your new tree, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help your garden thrive!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

A
Ashley
Beautiful tree

Great packaging and prices!

Dear Ashley,

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to hear that you were pleased with the packaging and found our prices to be a great value. We take great care in ensuring your plants arrive safely and at fair prices, so your feedback truly means a lot to us.

If you have any questions about caring for your beautiful tree or need tips on helping it thrive in your garden, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to support your planting journey.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

S
Susan
Sassafras Tree

This tree is also the host tree to the beautiful Spicebush Swallowtail and numerous sphinx and silk moths. Dont think it will harm or damage the trees, because usually the caterpillars do not appear in large enough numbers to cause any damage. A great wildlife tree!

Hi Susan,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful insights about the Sassafras Tree! We truly appreciate you highlighting how it supports beautiful pollinators like the Spicebush Swallowtail and various moth species. It’s great to hear from someone who recognizes the important role this wildlife-friendly tree plays in creating a vibrant ecosystem. You're absolutely right—these caterpillars rarely appear in numbers large enough to cause harm, making the Sassafras a wonderful addition to any garden that welcomes nature's visitors.

If you ever want to encourage even more wildlife, consider incorporating native nectar plants nearby to support adult butterflies and moths. And if you have other favorite shrubs or trees that benefit your local wildlife, we’d love to hear about them too!

Thank you again for your thoughtful review and for celebrating stewardship of nature through your garden.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

L
Littlebibs
unusual, beautiful tree

This tree grows smaller in my neck of the woods(Southeast New Hampshire) than its larger 100ftsouthern hosts but I remember as a kid seeing themitten leaves and the smell of the root beer liketea people still make from the roots. After so many attempts at growing one from cuttings etc.I received a live tree growing in a pot lastyear and its finally taking off. Its only 2 fttall but its green bark is interesting and theleaves are breaking out now.

Hello Littlebibs,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Sassafras Tree! It’s wonderful to hear how this unusual and beautiful tree holds such special memories for you, from the mitten-shaped leaves to the nostalgic root beer-like tea aroma. Growing a Sassafras in Southeast New Hampshire does present some challenges compared to the bigger southern specimens, so it’s fantastic that your tree is thriving and showing those unique green bark and fresh leaves.

Since your sapling is just getting established, here are a few tips that might help it along: be sure to keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained, and consider a protected spot with partial sunlight to mimic the conditions they enjoy in their native zoning. Additionally, applying a mild, organic mulch can help conserve moisture and regulate temperature. You might also find our online Sassafras Care Guide helpful, which provides insight on pruning, soil needs, and pest management specific to your area.

We’re excited to see how your Sassafras continues to grow and evoke such lovely memories – what a fortunate plant friend to have! Please feel free to reach out if you have questions or want more tailored advice as your green companion grows.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Q
Quietman
Fall color

In western Virginia, perhaps the most showy fall tree.

Dear Quietman,

Thank you so much for sharing your appreciation of the Sassafras Tree's vibrant fall color! It’s wonderful to hear that in western Virginia, this tree truly stands out as a showy and beautiful seasonal highlight. Sassafras is indeed a fantastic choice for adding striking autumn hues to any landscape.

If you’re looking to keep your Sassafras healthy and maintain that vivid fall color, be sure to plant it in well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure. Regular watering during dry spells and occasional mulching to retain moisture can also help it thrive. Should you need detailed care instructions or want to explore companion plants that enhance your garden’s fall palette, feel free to reach out or visit our resources online.

Thank you again for your kind words and for trusting Nature Hills with your gardening needs!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

J
Jackie
Momma always sent the bark to me! Southern Illinois

Best tea ever miss it so much!

Hi Jackie,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt memories alongside your review of the Sassafras Tree. It’s wonderful to hear how deeply connected you are to this plant—those Southern Illinois tea traditions sound truly special! Sassafras tea has such a distinct flavor and a cherished place in many family stories, and we’re honored to be part of that experience for you.

If you ever want tips on growing or harvesting your Sassafras to continue making that beloved tea, we’re here to help! Sassafras likes well-drained soil and a bit of shade as it gets established. Remember to only gather the leaves, bark, and roots sustainably to continue enjoying tailor-made brews season after season. Feel free to ask if you want recipes or planting advice!

Thank you again for choosing Nature Hills and for letting us be part of your garden journey.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

J
Jackie
Momma always sent the bark to me! Southern Illinois

Best tea ever miss it so much!

Hi Jackie,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt memories about the Sassafras Tree and its special connection to your momma’s tea! We absolutely love hearing how these plants hold such meaningful places in our customers’ hearts. Southern Illinois sounds like the perfect spot to grow your own sassafras and enjoy that authentic, cherished tea once again.

If you ever want tips on harvesting and preparing sassafras tea or suggestions for other native plants that complement your garden, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you bring those fond flavors back home with ease and care.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

B
BILL
THE OLD DAYS

ALL OF THIS INFORMATION TAKES ME BACK TO THE DAYS WITH MY GRANDMOTHER, I AM 60 YEARS OLD. THANK YOU SO MUCH !

Dear Bill,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt reflection with us! It’s wonderful to hear that our information about the Sassafras Tree brought back cherished memories of the special times spent with your grandmother. At Nature Hills, we cherish those connections between plants and the stories they carry through generations.

If you ever want to nurture your sassafras tree or learn tips on caring for it year-round, please don’t hesitate to reach out. From advice on soil conditions to pruning and pest management, we’re here to support you in keeping those “old days” memories vibrant in your garden today.

Warm wishes as you continue this beautiful journey,

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

B
Bill
THE OLD DAYS

ALL OF THIS INFORMATION TAKES ME BACK TO THE DAYS WITH MY GRANDMOTHER, I AM 60 YEARS OLD. THANK YOU SO MUCH !

Dear Bill C.,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt memories with us! It’s truly a joy to hear that our information about the Sassafras Tree brought you back to cherished moments with your grandmother. There’s something very special about the way certain plants connect us to our past and loved ones.

If you ever want to explore more native trees or learn interesting facts about gardening traditions, feel free to reach out—we’d love to help you continue building those connections. Meanwhile, nurturing your Sassafras is a wonderful way to honor those beautiful memories.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

L
Lefty
Fragrance

Morden Sunrise roses are fragrant for a shrub rose. Long bloom time also. It is very hardy as I live in northern MI.

O
Old
Fragrance

I never get tired of the fragrance of this tree. This year I am going to try to make some Sassafras tea.

Dear Old Nick,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Sassafras tree! We’re delighted to hear that the lovely fragrance continues to bring you joy year after year. Sassafras tea is a wonderful idea—it’s a traditional beverage known for its pleasant, slightly sweet flavor and soothing qualities. Just a quick tip: when making tea, be sure to use only the leaves or twigs and avoid the root bark, as it can contain compounds that may not be recommended in large amounts. For more detailed guidance, we have some helpful resources on safe foraging and preparing Sassafras tea that we’re happy to share if you’d like.

We hope your new exploration with Sassafras tea brings you many moments of comfort and enjoyment!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

O
Old
Fragrance

I never get tired of the fragrance of this tree. This year I am going to try to make some Sassafras tea.

Dear Old N.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the fragrance of your Sassafras tree! It’s truly special when a plant brings joy not just through its beauty, but also through its lovely aroma. Making Sassafras tea is a delightful way to enjoy your tree even more. Just a helpful tip: when harvesting leaves or roots for tea, be sure to identify them carefully and avoid taking too much from a single tree so it remains healthy. Also, if you’re new to brewing Sassafras tea, there are plenty of great recipes online that can guide you through the process gently to capture the subtle flavors and aromatics.

If you ever want more tips on caring for your Sassafras or suggestions for other fragrant plants, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

H
Happy
I love this tree

The Sassafras tree is striking in fall. There's so much I like. The aroma alone is worth planting one. If you get a chance, boil a root for an amazing fragrance in your home.

Hello Happy Y.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Sassafras tree! We’re delighted to hear how its fall beauty and unique aroma have brought such joy to your home. Boiling the roots to fill your space with that distinctive fragrance is a fantastic and creative tip—thank you for passing it along. Those little, fragrant touches really highlight what makes owning a Sassafras so special.

If you’re interested, we also have resources online about caring for Sassafras trees to ensure yours thrives season after season—from soil preferences to pruning tips. Feel free to reach out anytime if you want more personalized advice or new ideas for your garden.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

H
Happy
I love this tree

The Sassafras tree is striking in fall. There's so much I like. The aroma alone is worth planting one. If you get a chance, boil a root for an amazing fragrance in your home.

Dear Happy in New York,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Sassafras tree! We’re delighted to hear that its striking fall colors and unique aroma have brought you such joy. Your tip about boiling the roots for fragrance is a fantastic idea—a perfect way to bring the essence of nature indoors.

If you’d like, naturehills.com offers some great care guides to help keep your Sassafras healthy season after season. Since the roots are valuable, be sure to handle them gently to encourage your tree’s ongoing vitality. And don’t hesitate to reach out if you want advice on complementary plants that highlight fall colors alongside sassafras!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

C
Cajun
Fantastic Smell

I love the smell of this in my yard. It is a great looking tree and I plan to make my own gumbo fil this year!

Hello Cajun Gardner,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely experience with your Sassafras tree! We’re thrilled to hear you’re enjoying the wonderful aroma it brings to your yard – that unique, uplifting scent really makes the tree special. Whipping up your own gumbo filé sounds like a fantastic idea, too! If you haven’t yet, you might enjoy gathering fresh Sassafras leaves in late summer and drying them gently to create your own authentic filé powder for seasoning those savory dishes.

If you ever want tips on harvesting or preserving your Sassafras leaves for that perfect gumbo grind, just let us know. We’re always happy to help support your gardening and cooking adventures!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

C
Cajun
Fantastic Smell

I love the smell of this in my yard. It is a great looking tree and I plan to make my own gumbo fil this year!

Hello Cajun G.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Sassafras Tree! We’re thrilled to hear you’re enjoying its fantastic scent and attractive presence in your yard. The idea of making your own gumbo fil sounds delightful—a true taste of home and culture that’s sure to bring extra joy to your gardening endeavors.

If you’d like a little extra help nurturing your Sassafras for optimal growth and healthiest leaves, feel free to check out our Sassafras Care Guide on NatureHills.com. Ensuring your tree receives proper sunlight, well-drained soil, and occasional watering during dry spells will help keep it thriving. With these tips, your gumbo fil should be flavorful and fresh all year!

Thanks again for your lovely review; it truly made our day.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

I
Ittiz
A great tree

Like Littledibs I live in Southern NH. However these trees are more than shrubs on my land. I don't have any 100' tall, but I have half a dozen or so 30'+ tall. This tree has a very nice citrus like odor when the twigs are broken, and the roots have a very nice deep rooty smell to them when cut. I have a bag of the root dried in my fridge and it seems to keep the bad smells out.

Hi Ittiz,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderfully detailed experience with your Sassafras trees! It’s fascinating to hear how well they’ve adapted to your Southern NH location—and the way you’ve noticed their characteristic citrusy fragrance and the rich aroma of the roots really highlights what a special plant they are. We’re glad to learn that your dried roots help keep the bad smells at bay; that’s a smart natural use we don’t often hear about!

If you ever want to encourage further growth, pruning in early spring can help maintain good health and shape, and mulching around the base supports those deep roots you described. We also recommend planting Sassafras in well-drained sandy or loamy soil with full sun to part shade—something you likely already enjoy given your thriving trees.

Thanks again for giving us this lovely glimpse into your Sassafras journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want tips for caring for these aromatic beauties.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

I
Ittiz
A great tree

Like Littledibs I live in Southern NH. However these trees are more than shrubs on my land. I don't have any 100' tall, but I have half a dozen or so 30'+ tall. This tree has a very nice citrus like odor when the twigs are broken, and the roots have a very nice deep rooty smell to them when cut. I have a bag of the root dried in my fridge and it seems to keep the bad smells out.

Hi Ittiz,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Sassafras trees! It’s delightful to hear how healthy and tall your trees have grown, especially living in Southern NH where these beauties truly thrive. Your observation about the citrus-like scent from the twigs and the aromatic quality of the roots is such an insightful detail—those unique natural aromas are a part of what makes Sassafras so special.

It’s intriguing that you use dried Sassafras root to help keep away unwanted odors; that’s a clever way to enjoy its aromatic benefits beyond the garden. If you’re ever interested, Sassafras roots and leaves have also traditionally been used to make herbal teas or flavorings (always with safety in mind!), which might be a fun way to explore more uses for your harvest.

If you ever have any questions about continued care or expanding your sassafras grove, we’re here to help! Thanks again for taking the time to leave such an engaging and detailed review—it’s a real gift to hear about your botanical adventures.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

C
Cannonbooks
Beautiful Tree--But Potentially Toxic

I found out that sassafras used to be the second most popular U.S. export in the 1600's (after tobacco). I used to love sassafras tea, but found out that safrole (the flavoring agent in the bark) may be toxic. So you might want to lay off the tea. I have heard that file made from the leaves is probably fine. This is a beautiful and fragrant tree. Couldn't recommend it more highly!

Dear Cannonbooks,

Thank you so much for sharing such an enriching review about your Sassafras tree! We truly appreciate you highlighting both the historic significance and unique qualities of this fragrant beauty. Your insight regarding safrole’s toxicity is very helpful—not only for those who enjoy sassafras but also for anyone interested in safe, responsible usage. As you mentioned, while safrole in the bark can be a concern if ingested improperly, many people find that using file powder made from the leaves is a wonderful, safer culinary alternative in dishes like gumbo.

We’re delighted to hear you’re enjoying your tree and would encourage other nature lovers to admire its charm while respecting these considerations. If you’re ever interested in more info about safely enjoying sassafras or other herb and tree uses, feel free to explore our blog or reach out to us directly—we’d be happy to help.

Warm thanks again for your thoughtful and encouraging words. Happy gardening along with your fragrant sassafras!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

C
Cannonbooks
Beautiful Tree--But Potentially Toxic

I found out that sassafras used to be the second most popular U.S. export in the 1600's (after tobacco). I used to love sassafras tea, but found out that safrole (the flavoring agent in the bark) may be toxic. So you might want to lay off the tea. I have heard that file made from the leaves is probably fine. This is a beautiful and fragrant tree. Couldn't recommend it more highly!

Dear Cannonbooks,

Thank you so much for sharing such a thoughtful and informed review of your sassafras tree! We truly appreciate you highlighting both the rich history and the unique characteristics of this special plant. It's fascinating to think about sassafras as a historic U.S. export—a great piece of botanical and cultural trivia.

You’re right to mention safrole's toxicity concerns, especially linked to sassafras tea. We always encourage safrole caution since it can pose health risks when consumed in larger quantities. Your tip about file powder made from the leaves being safer is a great addition for fellow plant lovers looking to enjoy sassafras safely. For anyone interested, it’s often best to consult trusted herbal resources or healthcare providers before preparing sassafras products for culinary or medicinal use.

We’re thrilled to know you’re pleased with the beauty and fragrance of the sassafras tree you received—it sounds like it’s thriving and proving true to its unique appeal. If you ever seek guidance on caring for it or managing its growing environment for best results, we’re here and happy to help!

Thanks again for visiting NatureHills.com, and for being such an engaged member of our gardening community.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

L
Lady
sassafras

This is my favorite tree! My father told me that when he was younger they used to boil the roots and add sugar to make rootbeer flavored tea. He also said that people used to get some mixed in with poison oak. But that wasn't very common unless you didn't know what you were doing. I'm taking forestry class this year and this is one of the trees i look forward to studying about. i have found a lot of them growing near my house and i love the scent of the roots!

Hi Lady S.,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely story and memories about your favorite Sassafras tree! It’s wonderful to hear how your father’s experiences and the unique uses of sassafras have stuck with you—and how you’re now diving deeper into forestry studies with this remarkable tree. Sassafras roots do have a fascinating aroma and history, and your appreciation really brings that heritage to life.

Since you’re studying forestry, you might enjoy learning more about the ecological role sassafras plays in your local environment, including its benefits to wildlife and soil health. Also, taking care when identifying young sassafras vs. poison oak, as you mentioned, is a smart approach—nature can be tricky, but knowing this is helping you stay safe, which is fantastic. If you ever need detailed guides for safely handling or fostering sassafras or related species while you explore, we’re here to provide those resources.

We love supporting plant champions like you who carry on and expand such great botanical knowledge. Keep an eye curled to nature’s scents and growth this year—with your enthusiasm and expertise, you’ll surely uncover even more interesting Sassafras secrets.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i buy a sassafras tree?

  • You can buy sassafras trees from online nurseries, local garden centers, and native plant specialists. This medium-sized native tree starts shrub-like and develops into a fragrant specimen valued for its mitten-shaped leaves and root beer scent. Look for reputable suppliers that offer healthy, well-rooted specimens.

How big do sassafras trees get?

  • Sassafras trees are medium-sized, typically reaching 30-60 feet tall and 25-40 feet wide at maturity. They start with a shrub-like appearance before developing into their full tree form. Plant in naturalized areas where they have room to spread, available at naturehills.com.

What type of soil does a Sassafras tree prefer and what pH level?

  • Sassafras trees are adaptable to most well-draining soils and prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels between 5.5-7.0. They tolerate poor soils well, making them excellent for naturalized areas. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and avoid heavy clay soils.

Do Sassafras trees have any common pest or disease problems?

  • Sassafras trees are notably pest-free and have minimal disease issues, making them low-maintenance landscape choices. Their natural resistance means you won't need regular spraying or treatments. Plant in well-draining soil with good air circulation to prevent any potential fungal issues.

Can Sassafras trees tolerate drought conditions?

  • Sassafras trees have moderate drought tolerance once established, thanks to their native heritage and deep root system. They prefer consistent moisture but can handle dry spells better than many ornamental trees. Water regularly during the first two years, then reduce frequency as the tree matures. Shop drought-tolerant native trees at naturehills.com.

Should I plant male and female Sassafras trees together for better fruit production?

  • Sassafras trees are dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female, and only female trees produce the dark blue berries that attract wildlife in fall. You'll need both a male and female tree planted within pollination distance for fruit production. If you want berries for birds and the full ornamental display, plant at least one of each gender.