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Sassafras Tree
The production of sassafras oil by distillation of the root and root bark is a small industry in the southeastern section of the country. The yellowish green, fragrant flowers are borne in clusters which appear in early spring. All parts of the tree are aromatic. The fruit, which ripens in September, is about the size of a pea. Sassafras is a native tree, growing in rich woods from southern Maine to Ontario, Michigan, and Kansas and south to Florida and Texas. Leaves are a medium green and turn orange, red, or yellow in fall. The bark of the root, which is in reasonably constant demand is collected in spring or autumn. This widespread Eastern U. native is ideal for naturalistic landscaping. The sassafras occurs in the North as a shrub, but in the Southern States it sometimes attains a height of 100 feet. The Sassafras tree, Sassafrax variifolium, also known as the Sassafrac, Saxifrac, Smelling Stick, Aguetree, and Cinnamonwood tree. This deciduous tree has leaves that are shaped like a mitten. S. ... more information
Texana Nuttall Oak Fruits are oval acorns (to 1 1/2" long) with scaly cups. Dark green leaves (4-8" long) are deeply divided into 5-7 spiny, pointed lobes. Leaf shape is reminiscent of the closely related pin oaks and schumard oaks. Fall color comes late, but often includes quality shades of red. Species name is in reference to the state of Texas where this oak was apparently first identified. The wood is used as red oak lumber. The acorns are eaten by water fowl and many small mammals. |
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