As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it’s time to start thinking about which trees are best for autumn colour. In this article, we will explore some of the best trees for autumn colour and how to incorporate them into your landscape.
Maple Trees: The Classic Autumn Tree
Maple trees are perhaps the most iconic trees for autumn colour. Their vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red create a stunning contrast against the autumn sky. Some popular species of maple trees for autumn colour include the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) and the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum). The Sugar Maple is native to North America and is known for its brilliant orange and red hues. The Japanese Maple is a smaller, more delicate tree that can display a range of colours from yellow to deep red.
Dogwood Trees: A Unique Autumn Beauty
Dogwood trees are known for their beautiful spring blooms, but they also put on a spectacular autumn display. The Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) is a popular species for its brilliant red and pink foliage. This tree also produces red berries that add to its autumn charm. The Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is another species that puts on a stunning display of purples and reds in the autumn.
Birch Trees: A Subtle Beauty
Birch trees may not have the bold colours of other autumn trees, but their subtle yellows and golds create a unique and beautiful display. The Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) is a popular species for its delicate white bark and yellow autumn leaves. The River Birch (Betula nigra) is another species that displays yellow autumn foliage and attractive bark that peels away in layers.
Oak Trees: A Bold and Lasting Display
Oak trees may not have the same bright colours as other autumn trees, but their deep red and brown hues create a bold and lasting display throughout the season. The Red Oak (Quercus rubra) is a popular species for its vibrant red autumn leaves. The Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) is another species that displays a range of reds and browns in the autumn.
Incorporating Autumn Trees into Your Landscape
When selecting trees for autumn colour, consider the size, shape, and location of the tree in your landscape. Many autumn trees are large and require ample space to grow, so be sure to choose a location that can accommodate the size of the tree. Also consider the shape and form of the tree, as well as its seasonal changes, to ensure it fits in with your overall landscape design.
Guide for Tree Selection
| Genus | Common Name | Height (m) | Spread (m) | Growth Rate | Garden Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acer | Maple | 5-40 | 5-25 | Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Aesculus | Horse Chestnut | 15-30 | 10-20 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Amelanchier | Serviceberry | 4-10 | 4-8 | Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Betula | Birch | 5-25 | 5-20 | Fast | Small to Large |
| Carpinus | Hornbeam | 10-15 | 10-15 | Slow | Medium to Large |
| Cercidiphyllum | Katsura | 10-20 | 8-15 | Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Cornus | Dogwood | 3-10 | 3-10 | Slow to Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Euonymus | Burning Bush | 3-5 | 3-5 | Slow | Small to Medium |
| Fagus | Beech | 10-20 | 8-15 | Slow | Medium to Large |
| Fraxinus | Ash | 10-20 | 10-15 | Moderate to Fast | Medium to Large |
| Ginkgo | Maidenhair Tree | 10-20 | 5-8 | Slow to Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Liquidambar | Sweetgum | 15-25 | 10-15 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Liquidamber | American Sweetgum | 15-25 | 10-15 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Liriodendron | Tulip Tree | 15-25 | 10-15 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Nyssa | Tupelo | 6-15 | 4-10 | Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Parrotia | Persian Ironwood | 6-10 | 6-8 | Slow to Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Platanus | Plane Tree | 15-30 | 10-20 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Populus | Poplar | 10-30 | 5-15 | Fast | Medium to Large |
| Prunus | Cherry | 5-15 | 3-10 | Moderate to Fast | Small to Medium |
| Pyrus | Pear | 5-12 | 5-8 | Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Quercus | Oak | 10-25 | 10-25 | Slow to Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Sorbus | Rowan | 5-10 | 5-8 | Moderate | Small to Medium |
| Tilia | Linden | 15-25 | 10-20 | Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Ulmus | Elm | 10-30 | 10-20 | Moderate | Medium to Large |
| Zelkova | Japanese Zelkova | 10-20 | 8-15 | Moderate | Medium to Large |
Interesting Facts About Autumn Trees:
- The Sugar Maple is the national tree of Canada and features prominently on the country’s flag.
- Birch bark was historically used by indigenous peoples for making canoes, baskets, and other items.
- Oak trees can live for hundreds of years and provide valuable habitat for wildlife, such as birds and squirrels.
Links for Further Reading:
- Best Trees for Fall Color by The Spruce: https://www.thespruce.com/best-trees-for-fall-color-3269731
- Autumn Trees for Your Landscape by Better Homes & Gardens: https://www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/trees/best-autumn-trees/
- The Science Behind Autumn Leaves by National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2019/09/the-science-behind-fall-color/
