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The transformation of leaf colors is one of fall's most captivating sights—so, what causes the various colors to appear?
As trees cease producing chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis, other pigments hidden in the leaves start to show, giving rise to new colors.
While the vast range of fall colors in a forest is influenced by elements such as weather and geography, different tree species naturally display certain colors when exposed to the shorter days of autumn.
Here are nine tree species—some well-known, others a bit more obscure to those not so familiar with trees—that you should keep an eye out for if you want to witness a full spectrum of vibrant fall foliage colors.
Aspen
A stand of aspens. | Pete Lomchid/GettyImagesColorado’s iconic tree transforms into a stunning shade of gold as the temperatures drop. Genetics influence the timing of leaf color changes due to the chemical makeup of the leaves. Aspens reproduce by cloning through an underground root system, which means you can often spot groups of genetically identical trees. If you see a cluster of bright yellow trees standing out in a forest that's still mostly green, it's likely that those trees are all clones.
Black Gum
The vibrant leaves of a black gum tree. | Michael Lee/GettyImagesAlso known as the black tupelo tree, Nyssa sylvatica is one of the earliest trees to display its fall colors each year. Before it transitions into a brilliant red, its leaves may first take on shades of purple, yellow, and orange [PDF].
Sugar Maple
A sugar maple tree showcasing its brilliant array of fall colors. | Adria Photography/GettyImagesThis well-known tree (whose leaf is the national symbol of Canada) displays a range of vibrant colors all at once. Its leaves change to yellow, orange, red, and every shade in between. Acer saccharum is native to many regions across the eastern United States and Canada.
“Canada Red” Chokecherry
“Canada Red” is a cultivar of the native North American chokecherry tree (Prunus virginiana). Starting the year with green leaves, it gradually turns purple during summer; by fall, its leaves transition from red to reddish purple, creating a striking range of colors throughout the year.
Sassafras
Sassafras leaves in autumn. | Cyndi Monaghan/GettyImagesSassafras albidum, the tree that imparts the unique flavor to root beer, offers a stunning display in the fall. Its three-lobed leaves can turn shades of yellow, orange, red, and even a subtle pinkish hue during autumn.
Bradford Pear
While Bradford pears are visually appealing, they pose significant ecological challenges beyond their native regions. | john harding photography/GettyImagesIf you missed your fall foliage road trip, the Bradford pear, a tree originally native to China and Vietnam, might be your last chance to witness vibrant color change in the fall, transitioning into deep maroon. However, be cautious about planting these trees outside their native habitat, as they are considered invasive in the U.S. and have been banned in several states, with residents urged to remove them.
Katsura Tree
A katsura tree displaying its vibrant golden orange colors. | Frederik/GettyImagesCercidiphyllum japonicum, a flowering tree native to Japan, showcases bright yellow and pinkish-red hues during the fall. Additionally, when the tree sheds its leaves, a sweet fragrance emerges, often compared by passersby to burnt sugar or cotton candy.
American Beech
A detailed view of the leaves of an American beech tree. | Nancybelle Gonzaga Villarroya/GettyImagesThis towering tree, commonly found in forests across eastern North America, showcases golden-brown leaves in the fall, a striking contrast against its pale, almost white bark.
Maple-Leaf Viburnum
Viburnum acerifolium is more of a shrub than a tree, belonging to the honeysuckle family. However, its fall foliage, turning a rich pinkish-purple, more than compensates for its smaller size.
