Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is a lovely deciduous tree known for its aromatic nature, variably shaped leaves and terrific fall color. Sassafras is in the Lauraceae family, the true laurels and is one of two representatives in Kentucky, the other is spicebush (Lindera benzoin). It is also known as white sassafras. It is a medium sized tree that grows up to 60 feet tall and on average up to 10 inches in diameter. It is little more than a shrub in the northern part of its range but reaches largest growth in the Smoky Mountains. It is a relatively short-lived tree, usually not living longer than 50 to 70 years. Sassafras is an important wildlife tree, the oil from the root bark has been used in the perfume industry and it makes an attractive landscape tree.