Many trees change colors in the fall, but one of the most vivid is the red maple tree. When autumn arrives, the leaves on red maple trees transform into a brilliant ruby or crimson shade before falling to the ground.
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Why do red maple leaves turn red in fall?
The red pigments, called anthocyanins, are present in the leaves throughout the growing season but become unmasked in fall. During spring and summer, the green from chlorophyll dominates and hides the other pigments. In autumn, decreasing daylight and colder temperatures cause the leaves to stop producing chlorophyll. With the green pigment gone, the bright red anthocyanins show through.
Where are red maple trees found?
Red maple trees are native to eastern North America. Their natural range stretches from southeastern Canada down through the eastern United States to Texas and central Florida. Red maples thrive in areas with moist soil and are commonly found near streams, swamps, and floodplains.
When do the leaves start changing color?
Timing varies depending on climate, but red maple leaves usually start turning red between early and mid-fall. In northern parts of their range, the color change often begins in September. Farther south, the transition typically starts in October. Peak fall foliage occurs anywhere from mid-October to early November.
What other clues indicate a tree is a red maple?
- The bark is smooth and light gray on young trees, becoming ragged and scaly as it matures.
- The leaves have three or five lobes and toothed edges.
- Small red flowers bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge.
- The fruits are paired winged seeds that ripen to reddish tones in late spring.
What other trees have red fall foliage?
Several other tree species also produce vivid red autumn leaves. Some examples include:
| Tree | Description |
|---|---|
| Dogwood | Leaves turn deep red or purplish-red in fall. |
| Black tupelo | One of the first trees to show red fall color, starting in early October. |
| Sourwood | Small understory tree with leaves that become brilliant crimson. |
Conclusion
In summary, the red maple is one of the best trees to provide a vibrant red fall foliage display. Its bright crimson leaves are a classic sign of autumn. While other trees like dogwoods and sourwoods also turn red, the red maple truly stands out as the most vivid. So when you see a flash of brilliant ruby leaves, it likely signals a red maple preparing for winter.