Sassafras, White Sassafras, Ague Tree
Sassafras albidum · Lauraceae (Laurel family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lobed (specifically trilobed, resembling a mitten or a three-pronged dinosaur footprint/ghost shape), with some unlobed elliptical leaves also occurring on the same tree
Margin
Entire (smooth margins)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and primary lateral veins
Key Features
The presence of three distinct leaf shapes (oval, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed) on the same tree, combined with a spicy, aromatic scent when the leaves or twigs are crushed.
Description
Sassafras albidum is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its distinct aromatic properties and remarkable leaf polymorphism, often producing unlobed oval leaves, mitten-shaped leaves, and three-lobed leaves all on the same branch. The bark is thick, dark reddish-brown, and deeply furrowed with a spongy texture. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring followed by dark blue drupes on red stalks favoured by wildlife.
Habitat
Found in open woods, along fence rows, dry ridges, and disturbed areas; prefers moist, well-draining, acidic soils in full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southern Maine and Ontario west to Iowa, and south to Florida and eastern Texas.