0
Trees with Yellow Fall Leaves: A Guide to Vibrant Autumn Colors
Introduction
As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, deciduous trees burst forth with a blaze of bright color. Yellow is one of the most popular fall hues, and there are many different types of trees that turn yellow in autumn. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common trees with yellow fall leaves, their unique characteristics, and how to choose the right tree for your landscape.
Types of Trees with Yellow Fall Leaves
- Big-leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum): This large tree has huge leaves that turn a rich shade of yellow in autumn, sometimes with a hint of orange.
- Katsura (Cerciphyllum japonicum): A tall, rounded tree with purple, heart-shaped leaves that transform into apricot-yellow fall foliage.
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier x grandiflora): A relatively small, showy tree that produces pretty flowers in spring, followed by edible berries. Fall color ranges from yellow to brilliant orange red.
- Persian ironwood (Parrotia persica): A small, low-maintenance tree that produces a range of sunset colors, including orange, red, and yellow fall foliage.
- Ohio buckeye (Aesculus glabra): A small to medium-sized tree that generally produces yellow fall foliage, but the leaves may sometimes be red or orange, depending on weather conditions.
- Larch (Larix spp.): Available in a range of sizes and forms, larch is a deciduous evergreen tree that grows in cold, mountainous regions. Fall foliage is a shade of brilliant golden yellow.
- Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis): Valued for its masses of rose-purple flowers followed by interesting, bean-like seed pods and attractive, greenish yellow fall foliage.
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): Also known as the maidenhair tree, ginkgo is a deciduous conifer with attractive, fan-shaped leaves that turn bright yellow in autumn.
- Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata): People who love trees with yellow fall leaves will appreciate shagbark hickory’s colorful foliage that turns from yellow to brown as autumn progresses. The tree is also known for its flavorful nuts and shaggy bark.
- Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera): Also known as yellow poplar, this huge, tall tree is actually a member of the magnolia family. It is one of the prettiest, most majestic trees with yellow fall leaves.
Choosing the Right Tree for Your Landscape
When choosing a tree with yellow fall leaves for your landscape, there are a few things to consider:
- Size and shape: Consider the size and shape of the tree and how it will fit into your landscape. Some trees, like big-leaf maple, are large and spreading, while others, like serviceberry, are smaller and more compact.
- Climate: Make sure to choose a tree that is well-suited to your climate. Some trees, like larch, are cold-hardy and can tolerate cold winters, while others, like katsura, prefer warmer climates.
- Soil conditions: Different trees have different soil preferences. Be sure to choose a tree that will thrive in the soil conditions in your yard.
- Maintenance: Some trees require more maintenance than others. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into caring for your tree.
Conclusion
Trees with yellow fall leaves are a beautiful addition to any landscape. By choosing the right tree for your needs, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of autumn for years to come.
