Sassafras

Sassafras is a genus of deciduous trees in the laurel family (Lauraceae), best known in North America for *Sassafras albidum*.

Sassafras is a genus of deciduous trees in the laurel family (Lauraceae), best known in North America for the species *Sassafras albidum*. The trees are aromatic and distinctive for their leaves, which can be oval, mitten-shaped, or three-lobed on the same plant. The genus is native to eastern North America and also includes species in eastern Asia.

Description

Sassafras species are deciduous trees or tall shrubs belonging to the laurel family (Lauraceae). They are known for their aromatic bark, roots, and wood, and for producing three distinct leaf shapes — oval, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed — on the same plant. The plants are dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate trees.

Distribution and habitat

The North American species, *Sassafras albidum*, is native to eastern North America, including southern Ontario in Canada. It grows in woodlands, fields, roadsides, and other disturbed sites, often acting as a pioneer species. The plant frequently forms thickets or colonies from root sprouts.

Uses and cultural history

Sassafras has a history of use by Indigenous peoples and in commercial products. Its aromatic bark, roots, and wood were used in root beer, teas, soaps, and perfumes. However, sassafras oil contains safrole, a compound associated with carcinogenic risk, and its use in food is restricted in the United States and other countries.

Identification

Sassafras can be identified by the combination of its three leaf shapes — oval, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed — its aromatic smell when leaves or bark are crushed, and its thicket-forming growth habit from root sprouts. The bark of older trees becomes furrowed, while younger trees have smoother bark.