Distribution: Sporadically
distributed throughout the Eastern U.S. Height varies with
region: southern trees generally grow tallest with average
heights of 80 feet.
General Characteristics: Sassafras
heartwood is pale brown to orange brown, resembling ash
or chestnut. The narrow sapwood is yellowish white. The
wood has a coarse texture and is generally straight-grained.
Well-known as an aromatic species.
Weight: Basic specific gravity
(ovendry weight/green volume) 0.64; air-dry density 30
pcf.
Working Properties: Sassafras
is easily worked and takes a finish well. It glues well
and holds screws better than it nails, where pre-boring
may be necessary to avoid splitting. It requires care in
drying as it has a tendency to check with small movement
in performance.
Durability: Sassafras is reported
to have little resistance to attack by decay causing organisms
and other wood destroying insects.
Preservation: The wood is
reported to be resistant to preservative treatment.
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