WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?
Here is one of the most under-rated fall foliage trees I know of–the sassafras tree. Although it is a smaller and shorter-lived tree than others, it makes it up in a few ways. The fragrant smell from one of its twigs and roots is awesome and made into a syrup. Its leaves can take on 3 different shapes; Only mulberry–that I know of–has this unique trait. And lastly its foliage is awesome. I thought it only turned golden yellow like sugar maple; It turns out it also turns a brilliant red. In the photo below are 2 sassafras trees; One turning yellow & the other red.
Ryan Trapani
Director of Forest Services
Catskill Forest Association