Sassafras
Sassafras is a pleasant, aromatic domestic with better rot resistance than its modest hardness suggests. Visually it resembles ash — open, coarse grain with a warm yellowish-brown color. Historically significant (root beer was originally sassafras-based), it's a good wood for outdoor furniture, fence rails, and small decorative pieces. Rarely sold commercially, so sourcing usually means a local sawyer. Working it is easy and the aroma in the shop is one of the better sensory rewards in woodworking.
- Expecting it from commercial lumber sources — source from local sawyers
- Overlooking it for outdoor applications — rot resistance is respectable despite low hardness
- Applying finish without testing — aromatic oils can affect cure time of some products
Dull yellowish-brown to orange-brown heartwood, sometimes with grey tones. Often compared visually to ash. Distinct sweet, spicy aroma (historically used as root beer flavoring before safrole was regulated). Color lightens with age.
Works easily with both hand and machine tools. Good rot resistance for a moderately soft domestic — suitable for outdoor use. Aromatic oils can affect some finishes; test before applying. The scent is pleasant and distinctive in the shop. Coarse grain may benefit from grain filler for smooth finishes.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Regional / select dealers |
| Europe | Rare / not commonly imported |
| South America | Rare / not commonly imported |
| Australia/NZ | Rare / not commonly imported |
| Asia | Rare / not commonly imported |
| Africa | Rare / not commonly imported |