Japanese maple autumn leaves Autumn leaf color is a phenomenon that affects the normally green leaves of many deciduous trees and shrubs by which they take on, during a few weeks in the autumn season, various shades of yellow, orange, red, purple, and brown. [1] The phenomenon is commonly called autumn colours[2] or autumn foliage[3] in British English and fall colors, [4] fall foliage, or. Get real-time fall foliage updates and find the best fall color with our interactive map.
Plan your fall trip today! See when fall leaves will peak in 2025! View our U.S. fall foliage map, find top leaf-peeping spots, and get tips for the best autumn color viewing. Each fall, green leaves transform into the reds, yellows, and oranges of the season.
But, why? Here's what to know. In many places around the world, autumn is marked by the slow, beautiful change of green foliage to vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and purples. Leaves changing colors is one of the most iconic parts of autumn in the United States.
But why do leaves change their color in the first place? In short, leaves change color in the fall due to a breakdown of chlorophyll that happens when temperatures drop and sunlight decreases. But for a fully fleshed-out answer (without getting into the nitty-gritty details), we'll start with a science. Weather Explainers Fall Leaves: The Science Behind The Seasonal Spectacle Why do leaves give off those magnificent hues of fall color? Much of it has to do with the weather.
Autumnal leaves in vibrant hues are a beautiful part of the season, but those leaves are also a vital part of keeping trees alive. Trees that have leaves that change color in fall are deciduous. Learn why leaves change color in the fall and see the chemistry of the pigment molecules responsible for different leaf colors.
