Do Different Kinds of Trees Turn Different Colors?
Certain colors of leaves are characteristic of particular species of trees. Oaks turn red, brown, or russet; Hickories turn golden bronze; Dogwood turns purplish red; Beech turns light tan; Red maple turns brilliant scarlet; Sugar maple turns orange-red; Black maple turns glowing yellow; Sourwood and black tupelo turn crimson; Aspen, birch, and yellow-poplar turn golden yellow. Leaves of some species such as the elms simply shrivel up and fall off, exhibiting little color other than brown. The timing of the color change also varies by species. Sourwood in southern forests can become vividly colorful in late summer while all other species are still green. Oaks put on their colors long after other species have already shed their leaves. These differences in timing among species seem to be genetically inherited. The timing of color change for certain species appears to be consistent regardless of local weather patterns or changes in latitude. Why Are Some Autumns More Colorful? Temperatur
