The tall arrow-straight trunks were easily converted into cabins, barns and outbuildings by the early white settlers. The fall leaf colors usually range from red to maroon, but yellow pigments will also be observed on occasion. The exceptionally hard wood was used by the early white settlers for cogs, shuttles, hubs, hoops and horse collars. Check with your local agricultural extension service agent for possible remedies. A large forest tree that is fairly common up to about 5,300 feet.
Leaf colors range from yellow to red.
The species has traditionally been one of the most valuable to loggers. The black fruits that appear in late summer are favored by various birds. Very common in the lower and middle elevations, especially in disturbed areas like old fields. The leaves are usually yellowish or sometimes crimson. Sassafras tea can be made from the bark or rootstock.