Sassafras
Family: Lauraceae, laurel family
Genus, species: Sassafras albidum
Leaves:
Sassafras leaves have three distinct shapes: unlobed oval, two lobes, or three lobes. Leaves have smooth (untoothed) edges.
Bark:
Bark of mature trees is thick, deeply furrowed.
Flowers:
Tiny yellow flowers are produced in spring. Male and female flowers are on separate trees (dioecious).
Fruit:
Fruits are small, oblong, dark blue, produced on long red-stalked cups. Only female trees produce fruit.
Common Uses and Interesting Facts:
Oils distilled from roots, bark, or fruit are used to make root beer and sassafras tea.
More Information:
The genus name and common name, Sassafras, is from the Spanish salsafras. The species name, albidum, is from the Latin for "white."
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