Sassafras
Sassafras albidum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sassafras is a medium to large native tree known for its distinctive mitten-shaped leaves and brilliant orange-red fall color. It produces small yellow-green flowers in spring followed by dark blue berries, and can spread by root suckers to form colonies if not managed.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sassafras takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively by root suckers
- Can become quite large for typical residential lots
- May appear too informal for structured landscapes
Wildlife value
Host plant for tiger swallowtail, spicebush swallowtail, palamedes swallowtail.
The flowers attract bees and butterflies in spring, while the berries feed various bird species. Sassafras serves as a host plant for spicebush swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Sassafras fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.