We have a WINNER!In fact I'm going to declare a tie: Congrats Hikerman & Smoker Pete!
Smoker Pete was more accurate with what I'm doing with the root, but I had already told Tee I would accept either Root Beer or Sassafras Tea as a correct answer to the root! L.A. was also very close!
1) Tree Species: Sassafras
2) Leaves: Filé powder - to be used in gumbo
3) Root: used for Sassafras Tea and/or Root Beer.
The only thing left is for you two to to let us know how Tee's new "super-top-secret" rub is after you get it!
P.S. I'll post more details & pics of the File Powder & Sassafras Tea later.