When autumn arrives and the temperature starts to drop, trees all around us do something remarkable – they change their colors. The vibrant greens of summer transform into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and yellows. One of the most beautiful sights in nature is a yard full of trees with orange leaves.
There are many types of trees that have orange leaves, but some are more famous for their fiery hues than others. The Parthenocissus, also known as Virginia creeper, is a vine that can be found growing on walls and fences. In the fall, its green leaves turn a brilliant orange-red, creating a stunning blaze of color.
Another tree that is known for its orange foliage is the sweetgum tree. This medium-sized tree is native to the eastern United States and grows back in the summer. In autumn, its leaves turn a mix of yellow, orange, and red, making it a standout in any landscape.
The Japanese maple is also a favorite among tree enthusiasts. Its leaves come in a wide range of colors, from green to red, but it is the orange hues that steal the show. When the chloroplasts in the leaves activate the pigments that produce orange, they create a mesmerizing display that is hard to miss.
One of the most iconic trees with orange leaves is the persimmon tree. This tree is known for its vibrant orange fruits, but its leaves also put on a spectacular show in the fall. The leaves turn a mix of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning contrast against the tree’s dark bark.
So, the next time you see trees with orange leaves, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature. These trees are more than just a pretty sight – they are a signal that the seasons are changing, and winter is on its way. And while we may not always enjoy the colder temperatures that come with the change of seasons, we can all agree that the sight of trees with orange leaves is a sight to behold.
(We may receive a commission on purchases made from links)
Trees and Shrubs with Great Fall Color
In the fall season, many trees and shrubs undergo a remarkable transformation, turning their leaves into brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. These colors are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are also the result of complex chemical compounds and processes happening within the plants.
One such compound is chlorophyll, which gives leaves their green color and helps in photosynthesis. As the days become shorter and the temperature drops, trees and shrubs start breaking down the chlorophyll, revealing other hidden pigments such as carotenoids and anthocyanins. Carotenoids are responsible for the orange and yellow hues, while anthocyanins create red and purple shades.
Some species known for their gorgeous fall color include maple trees (Acer rubrum), whose leaves turn from green to vibrant orange-red. Another tree, the Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), showcases an array of attractive colors, ranging from dark purple to bright red. These trees, along with others like sumac (Rhus spp.) and quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), create a stunning display of colors that is hard to miss.
Shrubs also contribute to the fall color palette. Euonymus species, such as Euonymus alatus and Euonymus europaeus, produce leaves that transition from green to fiery red. Cotinus coggygria, commonly known as smokebush, is another shrub that flaunts spectacular fall foliage, with leaves turning shades of purple and red.
For some trees and shrubs, the fall colors serve a practical purpose beyond aesthetics. The bright and attractive hues can help divert the attention of herbivores and insects, preventing them from feeding on the plants’ leaves. In addition, the colors can be beneficial to the ecosystem by attracting birds that feed on fruits and seeds.
During the fall season, the change in colors is also accompanied by the sap withdrawal from the leaves into the branches and trunk. This sap withdrawal helps regulate the plant’s internal moisture levels and prepares it for the dormant winter months.
Overall, trees and shrubs with great fall color add interest and beauty to the landscape. Whether it’s the vibrant oranges and reds of the maple trees or the hidden yellows and purples of the smokebush, these plants provide a visual feast that is worth enjoying and appreciating.
| Tree/Shrub Name | Fall Color |
|---|---|
| Acer rubrum | Orange-red |
| Acer palmatum | Varies from dark purple to bright red |
| Rhus spp. | Various shades of red and purple |
| Populus tremuloides | Yellow |
| Euonymus alatus | Fiery red |
| Euonymus europaeus | Red |
| Cotinus coggygria | Purple and red |
Trees and Shrubs with Good Fall Color
Fall is a beautiful season when trees and shrubs transform into a vibrant display of colors. One of the most striking colors of fall is orange, which can be found in a variety of trees and shrubs. These plants make the autumn landscape truly spectacular.
One such tree is the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum), which is known for its stunning orange-red leaves. During winter, chlorophyll in the leaves breaks down, revealing the beautiful pigments. The sugar maple is a wide-ranging tree that can be found throughout the eastern and central parts of North America.
The Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is another plant that turns a vibrant orange in the fall. This climbing vine is beneficial for its ability to provide shade and attract birds. Its dark green leaves in summer gradually turn to bright orange as temperatures cool.
The Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) is a small to medium-sized tree known for its stunning fall color. This tree can display a wide range of colors, including shades of orange, red, and even pink. It is a popular ornamental tree, prized for its four-season beauty.
The Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is a shrub that can turn a fiery orange-red in the fall. Its unique winged branches and colorful leaves make it a pretty addition to any landscape. However, it should be noted that burning bush is considered invasive in some areas.
The American Smoke Tree (Cotinus obovatus) is another tree known for its fall color. Its leaves turn a vibrant orange, and the smaller size of the tree makes it suitable for smaller yards or gardens.
The American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is a large shade tree with leaves that turn orange, red, and even some brown in the fall. Its star-shaped leaves and corky bark provide additional interest throughout the year.
The Kaki Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a deciduous tree that produces orange fruits in the fall. Its leaves also turn a beautiful shade of orange before dropping in winter. This tree is native to China and Japan but can be found in many parts of the world.
Overall, trees and shrubs with orange fall color add a pop of vibrant warmth to the landscape. Whether it’s a majestic maple or a small smoke tree, these plants thrive in the fall and provide a stunning display of colors.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to add some color to your garden, consider planting trees and shrubs that turn orange in the fall. Not only will they provide beautiful autumn colors, but they will also attract birds and make your landscape more vibrant and lively.
Shade Trees with Good Fall Color Listed by Height
When it comes to selecting trees with good fall color, there are several factors to consider. One important factor is the height of the tree, as it will determine where the tree can be planted and what conditions it can tolerate. Here, we will explore shade trees with good fall color, listed by their height.
| Tree Type | Height | Fall Color |
|---|---|---|
| Acer rubrum | 60-90 feet | Red |
| Amur Tupelo | 40-50 feet | Yellow, Orange |
| Euonymus alatus | 10-15 feet | Red |
| Liquidambar styraciflua | 60-75 feet | Yellow, Orange, Red, Purple |
| Rhus typhina | 10-20 feet | Red, Orange |
| Cotinus coggygria | 10-20 feet | Red, Orange, Purple |
| Dogwood | 20-30 feet | Red, Orange, Purple |
| Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) | 30-80 feet | Red, Orange, Yellow |
These shade trees provide year-round beauty and get attention during the autumn season with their vibrant fall colors. The changing colors are a result of the trees’ biology. During the summer, chlorophyll, the main pigment responsible for the green color of leaves, absorbs sunlight and uses its energy to produce food for the tree through the process of photosynthesis. In the fall, as sunlight decreases, trees divert energy away from chlorophyll production. This leads to the breakdown of chlorophyll molecules, revealing other pigments such as carotenoids, which produce yellow, orange, and red colors, and anthocyanins, which produce red and purple colors. These pigments are always present in the leaves, but are masked by the dominant green chlorophyll during the summer months.
Shade trees with good fall color can add beauty and interest to any landscape. Whether you have a small garden or a full-fledged backyard, there is a tree suitable for your space. Consider the height, colors, and conditions that the tree can tolerate, and plant accordingly. Enjoy the seasonal spectacle as the leaves turn from green to various shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple, and create a stunning display that will leave a lasting impression.
Small Trees with Good Fall Color Listed by Height
When it comes to small trees with good fall color, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for trees that are edible or have beautiful foliage, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the top choices:
Dogwood (Cornus spp.): Dogwood trees are known for their brilliant fall foliage. Most varieties produce vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Some dogwoods also bear edible fruit, adding an extra element of interest to your landscape.
Liquidambar (Liquidambar spp.): Liquidambar trees, also known as sweetgums, create a stunning display of colors in the autumn. Their leaves turn from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The fallen leaves also release a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
Amelanchier (Amelanchier spp.): Amelanchier trees, also called serviceberries or Juneberries, have beautiful foliage throughout the year. In the fall, their leaves turn bright shades of orange, red, and yellow. They also produce small, edible berries that are enjoyed by both humans and wildlife.
Carya spp.: The various species of Carya, commonly referred to as hickory trees, offer beautiful fall colors. Their leaves can turn shades of yellow, orange, and brown. While hickory nuts are not typically considered edible for humans, they are a beneficial food source for wildlife.
Quercus spp.: Oak trees are known for their reliable fall colors. Many oak species, such as Quercus rubra and Quercus sylvatica, display shades of red, orange, and brown in the autumn. Their large, deciduous leaves create a stunning carpet of colors beneath the tree.
Parthenocissus spp.: Species like Parthenocissus quinquefolia, commonly known as Virginia creeper or woodbine, offer a beautiful display of fall colors. Their leaves turn from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and purple. The climbing vine can also provide cover and habitat for wildlife.
Acer palmatum: Japanese maple trees are renowned for their brilliant fall colors. Their leaves can turn various shades of red, orange, and yellow. With their small size and wide range of hues, Japanese maples are a popular choice for small gardens and landscapes.
Nyssa spp.: The various species of Nyssa trees, such as Nyssa sylvatica (black tupelo), showcase incredible fall foliage. Their leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a vibrant display. Tupelo trees are hardy and adapt well to a variety of climate zones.
Smoke trees: The smoke tree (Cotinus spp.) offers an unusual but beautiful display of fall colors. The leaves turn varying shades of orange, red, and purple, resembling a puff of smoke. These trees are valued for their unique appearance.
As you can see, there are many small trees that can provide a brilliant display of fall colors. Whether you’re searching for edible fruit, hidden benefits for wildlife, or simply a pop of color in your garden, these trees are sure to excite and add beauty to your landscape.
