Where to Buy Sassafras Trees: A Guide to the Best Sources

AvatarByArthur Cook Tree Nurturing

Sassafras trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. With their bright green leaves and fragrant bark, they can add a touch of color and interest to any yard. Plus, they’re relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for even novice gardeners.

If you’re thinking about adding a sassafras tree to your property, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to make sure that you’re buying a tree that is suitable for your climate. Sassafras trees are native to the eastern United States, but they can also be grown in other parts of the country with warm, humid summers and mild winters.

Once you’ve found a tree that is suitable for your climate, you need to decide where to plant it. Sassafras trees prefer full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. They also need well-drained soil, so make sure to choose a spot that doesn’t get waterlogged after a rain.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty and benefits of a sassafras tree for years to come.

Sassafras Tree Species Price Where to Buy
Sassafras albidum $10-$20
Sassafras sassafras $20-$30
Sassafras variifolium $30-$40

Sassafras trees (Sassafras albidum) are deciduous trees native to eastern North America. They are known for their aromatic bark, which is used to make root beer and other flavorings. Sassafras trees can grow to be 30 feet tall and have a spreading, rounded crown. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate to elliptical. They are green in summer and turn yellow, orange, and red in fall. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and they are produced in drooping clusters in early spring. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is black when ripe.

Sassafras trees are easy to grow and are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. They are also drought-tolerant and can withstand some flooding. Sassafras trees are not as cold-hardy as some other trees, and they may be damaged or killed by severe winter weather.

Sassafras trees are popular ornamental trees that are planted for their attractive foliage and bark. They are also used as shade trees and for erosion control. Sassafras trees are also a source of essential oils, which are used in a variety of products, including perfumes, soaps, and medicines.

Types of Sassafras Trees

There are four species of sassafras trees:

  • Black sassafras (Sassafras nigra)
  • White sassafras (Sassafras albidum)
  • Formosan sassafras (Sassafras randaiensis)
  • Chinese sassafras (Sassafras tzumu)

Black sassafras is native to the eastern United States. It is a large tree that can grow to be 60 feet tall. The leaves are dark green and have a serrated edge. The flowers are small and greenish-white. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is black when ripe.

White sassafras is native to the eastern United States and Canada. It is a smaller tree than black sassafras, and it typically grows to be 30 feet tall. The leaves are green and have a smooth edge. The flowers are small and greenish-white. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is black when ripe.

Formosan sassafras is native to Taiwan and China. It is a small tree that can grow to be 20 feet tall. The leaves are green and have a serrated edge. The flowers are small and greenish-white. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is black when ripe.

Chinese sassafras is native to China. It is a small tree that can grow to be 20 feet tall. The leaves are green and have a serrated edge. The flowers are small and greenish-white. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is black when ripe.

Where to Buy Sassafras Trees

Sassafras trees can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:

  • Online retailers
  • Garden centers
  • Nurseries
  • Local plant societies

Online retailers offer a wide variety of sassafras trees, and they often have the best prices. However, you may have to wait a few weeks for your tree to arrive.

Garden centers and nurseries typically carry a limited selection of sassafras trees. However, you can usually find trees that are locally grown. You can also get advice from the staff at garden centers and nurseries about how to care for your sassafras tree.

Local plant societies often have sassafras trees for sale at their annual plant sales. This is a great way to find trees that are native to your area. You can also get advice from the members of the plant society about how to care for your sassafras tree.

Sassafras trees are beautiful and versatile trees that can add a lot of value to your landscape. They are easy to grow and care for, and they are a great source of essential oils. If you are looking for a new tree to add to your yard, consider a sassafras tree.

Additional Information

  • Sassafras trees are poisonous to dogs and cats. If your pet eats any part of the tree, contact your veterinarian immediately.
  • Sassafras trees can be invasive in some areas. Be sure to check with your local extension office before planting a sassafras tree.
  • Sassafras trees are susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. Be sure to take steps to protect your tree from these problems.

References

  • [USDA Forest Service: Sassafras](https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/publications/documents/psw_gtr192/psw_

3. How to Care for Sassafras Trees

Sassafras trees are relatively easy to care for, but they do have a few specific needs that you should be aware of.

  • Soil and water requirements

Sassafras trees prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They are tolerant of a wide range of soil pH levels, but they do best in slightly acidic soil. Sassafras trees need regular watering, but they should not be allowed to sit in waterlogged soil.

  • Sunlight and temperature requirements

Sassafras trees need full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but they will not grow as well in deep shade. Sassafras trees are hardy in USDA zones 5-9, and they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, they are not tolerant of frost or freezing temperatures.

  • Pests and diseases

Sassafras trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and leaf spot. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Scale insects can be controlled with a systemic insecticide. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected leaves and treating the tree with a fungicide.

  • Pruning and training

Sassafras trees do not require a lot of pruning, but you may want to prune them to shape them or to remove dead or diseased branches. You can prune sassafras trees in late winter or early spring.

4. Harvesting Sassafras Roots

Sassafras roots are harvested for their essential oil, which is used in a variety of products, including flavorings, fragrances, and medicines. The best time to harvest sassafras roots is in the fall, after the leaves have fallen.

To harvest sassafras roots, dig up the tree with a shovel or an axe. Once the tree is uprooted, carefully remove the roots. Rinse the roots off with water and cut them into small pieces. The roots can then be dried and stored for later use.

Sassafras roots can be used fresh or dried. To use fresh roots, grind them into a powder and add them to food or beverages. To use dried roots, steep them in hot water to create a tea.

Sassafras roots are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. They can be used to flavor food, beverages, and medicines. Sassafras roots are also a good source of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Sassafras trees are beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants that can add a touch of natural beauty to any landscape. They are also a valuable source of essential oil, which is used in a variety of products. If you are looking for a tree that is both beautiful and useful, sassafras is a great option.

Where can I buy sassafras trees?

  • Sassafras trees are available for purchase from a variety of online retailers and nurseries.
  • When shopping for sassafras trees, it is important to consider the size of the tree, the climate in which it will be grown, and the intended use for the tree.
  • Sassafras trees can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
  • Sassafras trees typically grow to be 20-30 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide.
  • Sassafras trees are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in the fall.
  • Sassafras trees are dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate trees.
  • Sassafras trees are pollinated by insects.
  • Sassafras trees produce small, black fruits that are edible but not very tasty.
  • Sassafras trees are used for a variety of purposes, including landscaping, timber, and medicinal purposes.

What is the best time to plant a sassafras tree?

  • The best time to plant a sassafras tree is in the spring, after the last frost.
  • Sassafras trees can also be planted in the fall, but they may need to be protected from frost.
  • When planting a sassafras tree, it is important to dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball.
  • The root ball should be placed in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
  • The hole should be filled with soil and compacted firmly.
  • The tree should be watered thoroughly after planting.

How much does a sassafras tree cost?

  • The cost of a sassafras tree varies depending on the size of the tree, the variety of the tree, and the location where the tree is purchased.
  • Sassafras trees typically cost between $10 and $50 per tree.
  • Larger trees and trees from specialty nurseries will cost more than smaller trees and trees from general nurseries.
  • Sassafras trees can also be purchased as seedlings or saplings, which are less expensive than mature trees.

How do I care for a sassafras tree?

  • Sassafras trees are relatively easy to care for, but they do require some basic care to thrive.
  • Sassafras trees need full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
  • They are drought tolerant, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.
  • Sassafras trees should be fertilized once a year in the spring.
  • Sassafras trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, but they can usually be treated with natural or organic remedies.

What are the benefits of growing a sassafras tree?

  • Sassafras trees are beautiful and add a touch of interest to any landscape.
  • They provide shade and shelter for wildlife.
  • Sassafras trees are also a source of food and medicine for humans and animals.
  • The roots, bark, and leaves of sassafras trees can be used to make tea, essential oil, and other products.
  • Sassafras trees are also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, flu, and arthritis.

What are the drawbacks of growing a sassafras tree?

  • Sassafras trees can be invasive in some areas.
  • They can also be a host to pests and diseases.
  • The roots of sassafras trees can be shallow and damage sidewalks, driveways, and other structures.
  • The bark of sassafras trees can be toxic to dogs and cats.

    sassafras trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They are easy to grow and care for, and they provide a number of benefits, including their edible roots, fragrant leaves, and beautiful fall foliage. If you are looking for a tree that is both attractive and functional, the sassafras is a great option.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Sassafras trees are native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along streams.
  • Sassafras trees grow to be between 20 and 40 feet tall and have a spreading, rounded crown.
  • The leaves of the sassafras tree are alternate, simple, and ovate to elliptical. They are green in the summer and turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.
  • The flowers of the sassafras tree are small and greenish-white. They are produced in clusters on the branches in early spring.
  • The fruit of the sassafras tree is a small, dark purple drupe. It is poisonous to humans, but it is a favorite food of many birds.
  • The roots of the sassafras tree are edible and can be used to make a tea or a spice.
  • Sassafras trees are easy to grow and care for. They are drought-tolerant and can withstand a variety of soil conditions.

If you are looking for a beautiful and versatile tree to add to your landscape, the sassafras is a great option. It is easy to grow and care for, and it provides a number of benefits, including its edible roots, fragrant leaves, and beautiful fall foliage.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.