[1] Sassafras randaiense is treated by some botanists in a distinct genus as Yushunia randaiensis (Hayata) Kamikoti, though this is not supported by recent genetic evidence, which shows Sassafras to be monophyletic.

The leaf shape is variable, with most leaves simple (entire) without lobes, but 2 to 3-lobed leaves can be found on some trees, a feature it shares with the North American species S. albidum and †S.

The fruits are globose, 6–7 mm across, and are attached on a thickened pedicel 2.5–3 cm long.

S. randaiense is found in broad-leaved forests from 900 to 2,400 m throughout the island of Taiwan.

Molecular data also shows some differences between the Chinese and North American species.