Doryphora sassafras Endl.
Large, aromatic tree with elliptic, coarsely serrated leaves, to 10cm long, and short axillary peduncles of, usually, three white flowers in early spring. The timber of the Sassafras is of some commercial value. [RHSD, FNSW, Beadle].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘Sassafras. The bark is used as a tonic medicine. It is taken in the form of an infusion. [p.168].
Sassafras. The following are, or were, some of its New South Wales aboriginal names:— “Caalang” Illawarra; “Tdjeundegong” Brisbane Water; “Boobin” northern districts. The timber is fragrant, and disagreeable to all kinds of vermin; it is soft and weak, yet suitable for the inside lining of houses, for some kinds of furniture, etc. It is also used for packing-cases. It is light in weight, and light coloured, and sometimes presents a neat figure, but the author does not think it can be durable. Diameter, 2 to 3ft.; height, over 50ft. New South Wales and Queensland.’ [Maiden – The Useful Native Plants of Australia p.168, p.418/1889].
History at Camden Park
Only listed in the 1857 catalogue [T.394/1857]. Probably sourced locally by Macarthur. Widespread on the ranges north of Bega [FNSW].
Notes
Published Feb 26, 2009 - 03:40 PM | Last updated Jul 27, 2010 - 05:25 PM
| Family | Monimiaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Eastern Australia |
| Synonyms | |
| Common Name | Sassafras |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Doryphora sassafras |
| Confidence level | high |