Sassafras, White Sassafras, Red Sassafras
Sassafras albidum · Lauraceae (Laurel family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lobed with three distinct lobes (often called mitten-shaped or three-lobed, though Sassafras leaves can also be unlobed or two-lobed)
Margin
Entire (smooth margins)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate to somewhat palmate-netted, with a prominent central midrib and primary veins branching out to each of the three lobes.
Key Features
The presence of three distinct leaf shapes on the same branch (unlobed, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed), combined with a distinct, spicy-sweet aroma when the leaves or twigs are crushed.
Description
Sassafras albidum is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its distinct aromatic foliage and unique leaf polymorphism, where three different leaf shapes—unlobed (oval), two-lobed (mitten-shaped), and three-lobed (tri-lobed)—can all be found on the same tree. The bark is thick and reddish-brown with deep furrowing in mature trees. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring followed by dark blue drupes on red stalks for female trees.
Habitat
Found in open woods, along fence rows, forest edges, and disturbed areas. Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly 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.