Sassafras albidum (Sassafras)

Sassafras albidum (Sassafras) is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to eastern North America. It usually reaches heights of 30 to 60 feet (9–18 meters), though in optimal conditions it can grow as tall as 98 feet (30 meters). The tree is easily identified by its aromatic qualities and its unusual leaves, which appear in three different shapes—simple oval, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed—often all on the same branch.   The foliage is bright green on top and lighter underneath, with leaves measuring 4 to 7 inches long. In autumn, sassafras puts on a spectacular display, with its leaves turning vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red. In early spring, before the leaves emerge, the tree produces clusters of small, yellowish-green flowers. Sassafras is dioecious, so male and female flowers grow on separate trees. When pollinated, female trees bear small, dark blue-black fruits set in striking red stalks, which attract birds.   Mature sassafras trees have thick, deeply furrowed, reddish-b