How does sassafras reproduce?
Sassafras is a dioecious tree, meaning each tree has either male or female flowers. • Female sassafras trees produce small, ovular fruits that are dark blue in color. • When the fruit ripens, it falls to the ground. • Once sassafras trees reach maturity in ten years, they fruit once a year or every other year. Other facts about sassafras: • Native Americans valued sassafras for its medicinal value, using parts of the tree to treat fever, diarrhea, measles, coughs, indigestion, nausea and colds. • Sassafras leaves can be used as a spice to add flavor to foods and soups. • Sassafras heartwood is orange-brown in color and often used in boat construction because it is light and durable. • Songbirds and small mammals such as squirrels like to eat sassafras fruit.
