The distinctive, variable leaves of the sassafras tree (Sassafras albidum) are a familiar sight in eastern North American woodlands, renowned for their unique mitten-shaped and three-lobed “dinosaur foot” forms, alongside simpler oval leaves. This polymorphism on a single plant often captures the eye, but it also leads to frequent misidentification. Many other tree species share leaf characteristics that, at a glance, might trick even seasoned nature enthusiasts into thinking they’ve found a sassafras. Understanding these look-alikes is crucial for accurate tree identification, whether for foraging, landscaping, or simply appreciating biodiversity. This article delves into the specific features of sassafras leaves and explores other trees that mimic its iconic foliage, providing key differentiators to help you confidently tell them apart.
The distinct look of sassafras leaves
To truly appreciate the sassafras look-alikes, one must first be intimately familiar with the genuine article. Sassafras leaves are perhaps their most defining characteristic, exhibiting a remarkable diversity in shape, often all present on the same branch or even the same twig. Typically, you’ll find three main forms: unlobed oval or elliptical leaves, two-lobed leaves often described as “mitten-shaped” (with one prominent thumb-like lobe), and three-lobed leaves, sometimes likened to a chicken’s foot or a dinosaur’s footprint. These leaves are alternate on the stem, bright green above, slightly paler beneath, and smooth to the touch. Another undeniable tell-tale sign is their fragrance: when crushed, sassafras leaves, twigs, and even bark emit a pleasant, spicy, root beer-like aroma, a characteristic almost unique to the species. This distinctive scent, coupled with the variable lobing, forms the primary basis for both identification and confusion.
Identifying the look-alikes: a focus on red mulberry
Among the trees most frequently mistaken for sassafras, the red mulberry (Morus rubra) stands out as a prime contender. The confusion primarily stems from the incredible variability of its leaves, which can also appear as unlobed, two-lobed (often resembling a sassafras “mitten”), and three-lobed forms, sometimes even more deeply lobed on younger branches. Like sassafras, these various leaf shapes can occur on a single red mulberry tree, making visual identification based solely on leaf shape extremely challenging. However, subtle differences exist. Red mulberry leaves tend to be rougher in texture on the upper surface compared to the smooth sassafras leaf. Their margins are typically serrated (toothed), whereas sassafras leaves have smooth margins. Furthermore, if you break a petiole (leaf stalk) or a twig from a red mulberry, you will notice a milky white sap exuding, a feature absent in sassafras. Observing these additional characteristics is vital for accurate differentiation.
Distinguishing features: beyond just leaf shape
Relying solely on leaf shape for identification, especially with polymorphic species like sassafras and red mulberry, is a recipe for error. A holistic approach, examining multiple features of the tree, is essential. Beyond the aforementioned leaf texture and sap presence, bark, twigs, and fruit provide crucial clues. Sassafras bark on mature trees is deeply furrowed with thick, reddish-brown ridges, often revealing an orange inner bark in the furrows. Its twigs are typically bright green and brittle, emitting that distinctive root beer aroma when scratched or broken. The fruit of the sassafras is a dark blue drupe (a fleshy fruit with a central stone) borne on a bright red, fleshy stalk. In contrast, red mulberry bark is usually grayish-brown, less deeply furrowed, and often exfoliates in long, scaly strips. Its twigs are grayish-brown and do not have the strong aromatic quality of sassafras, but rather exude the milky sap when broken. The fruit of the red mulberry is an aggregate of drupelets, resembling a dark purple to black blackberry, and is quite edible. Observing these combined traits leaves little room for doubt.
Here’s a quick comparison of key distinguishing features:
| Feature | Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) | Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape Variability | Unlobed, 2-lobed (mitten), 3-lobed; smooth margins | Unlobed, 2-lobed, 3-lobed (more pointed); serrated margins |
| Leaf Texture | Smooth on both sides | Often rough (scabrous) on upper surface |
| Aroma (Crushed Leaf/Twig) | Strong “root beer” or spicy scent | No distinct aroma |
| Sap (Broken Petiole/Twig) | Clear or none | Milky white sap present |
| Bark (Mature) | Deeply furrowed, reddish-brown, orange inner bark | Grayish-brown, less furrowed, scaly/exfoliating |
| Fruit | Dark blue drupe on a red fleshy stalk | Dark purple/black aggregate fruit (like a blackberry) |
Beyond primary suspects: a note on other possibilities
While red mulberry is the most common and convincing sassafras mimic, it’s worth briefly acknowledging that other trees, particularly when young or in unusual growing conditions, can sometimes present leaves that might cause fleeting confusion. Certain types of oak, for instance, particularly pin oak (Quercus palustris) or scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea), can have deeply lobed leaves that, in their early stages, might superficially resemble sassafras from a distance. However, a closer inspection quickly reveals the distinct bristle-tipped lobes and cluster of terminal buds characteristic of oaks, which are entirely different from sassafras. Similarly, some variations in sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) leaves, while typically star-shaped with 5-7 pointed lobes, might occasionally produce an odd lobe count that could be momentarily misleading. Yet, sweetgum leaves are also finely serrated and have a distinct smell when crushed, often more resinous, and their corky-winged twigs and spiky ball fruits are unmistakable. The key takeaway remains: always look beyond a single feature. A true expert identifies a tree by its entire suite of characteristics.
Conclusion
The quest to accurately identify trees with leaves resembling sassafras is a testament to the intricate beauty and occasional trickery of nature. While the iconic three-lobed, mitten-shaped, and oval leaves of the sassafras are unique, its variability often leads to confusion, primarily with the red mulberry. However, by moving beyond superficial leaf morphology and employing a keen eye for detail, one can confidently distinguish these species. Remember the crucial differentiators: the smooth, aromatic leaves and green twigs of sassafras versus the often rougher, milky-sapped leaves and gray twigs of red mulberry. Furthermore, examining the distinct bark patterns and fruit types provides unequivocal evidence. Embracing a comprehensive approach, where bark, twigs, buds, and fruit are considered alongside leaf shape, empowers you to unravel these botanical puzzles. The joy of identifying each tree correctly not only deepens your appreciation for the natural world but also enriches your understanding of local ecosystems.