Sassafras wood, derived from the common eastern North American tree, is often encountered when gathering local firewood. While it is not the first choice for a long-burning, high-heat fuel source, its availability and unique characteristics make it popular among wood-burning enthusiasts. Assessing its performance requires understanding its density and how it behaves in a fire. Sassafras offers advantages in preparation and aroma that offset its moderate heat output.
Heat Output and Burn Characteristics
Sassafras is classified as a low-density hardwood, similar to cottonwood or silver maple. Its lighter structure provides a moderate heat content, typically around 19.5 million British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cord. This output is substantially lower than premium hardwoods like oak or hickory, which can exceed 25 million BTUs. The lower density translates directly to a faster consumption rate in the firebox.
Because it burns quickly, sassafras is well-suited for starting fires or for use during the “shoulder seasons” when only quick, moderate heat is needed. It ignites easily due to natural oils within the wood. However, this rapid combustion produces poor, short-lived coals, making it inefficient for maintaining a fire overnight or providing sustained warmth. For longer burns, sassafras is best utilized when mixed with denser, slower-burning species.
Preparing and Seasoning Sassafras
One practical benefit of sassafras is the ease of processing the wood before burning. The wood possesses a straight, uniform grain, which allows for easy splitting, often requiring little effort compared to woods with interlocked or knotty grains. This characteristic makes it a favorite for manual processing and creating kindling.
Its low density and low sap content contribute to a significantly shorter seasoning time compared to many other hardwoods. While dense woods like oak may require 12 to 18 months to reach the optimal moisture content of 20% or less, sassafras can often be seasoned in six to nine months after splitting. To ensure the wood maintains its dryness, it should be stacked off the ground and covered only on the top, allowing for maximum air circulation.
Unique Properties and Burning Experience
The primary appeal of sassafras is the distinctive sensory experience it offers while burning. The wood contains natural essential oils that release a pleasant, root-beer or spicy fragrance when heated. This unique aroma is a major advantage for open fireplaces or outdoor use, making it a favorite for campfires or short, recreational fires.
Sassafras generally produces a moderate amount of smoke, typical for a lower-density wood. However, the essential oils that create the pleasant smell can also cause the wood to pop and spark while burning. Therefore, using a fireplace screen or keeping wood stove doors closed is a recommended safety precaution. Consistent with its lower resin and sap content, sassafras has a low potential for contributing to creosote buildup, provided it is properly seasoned.