From the Natural Resources Commission: Planting Trees for Fall Color

Published on October 01, 2025

By Meagan Provencher, Natural Resources Commission

One of the reasons I love living in the Midwest is the change in seasons. Nothing is prettier than the oranges, reds, and yellows of trees and shrubs dotting our landscapes in the fall.

For shrub borders, many plants shine in autumn. Black Chokeberry, Oakleaf Hydrangea, Fothergilla, Diervilla, and most Viburnum offer rich red or burgundy foliage. Common Winterberry, a deciduous Holly, glows with yellow fall leaves before dropping to reveal clusters of red berries that brighten winter. Witch Hazel surprises with tiny orange and yellow flowers in October along with striking fall color.

Hydrangeas also carry beauty well into fall and even after snowfall, when their tan flower heads add structure. Sun-loving varieties like ‘Little Lime Punch,’ ‘Firelight Tidbit,’ and ‘Little Quickfire’ are favorites, while shade-tolerant selections such as ‘Incrediball’ (huge white blooms) and ‘Invincibelle Spirit’ (pink, non-flopping flowers) extend the season. With so many new Hydrangea introductions, there’s no shortage of options for fall and beyond.

Shade trees create the boldest seasonal displays — browns, reds, burgundy, and gold. Maples remain classics: Sugar Maples with their multi-toned foliage, Red Maples blazing scarlet, and Norway Maples glowing gold. For smaller yards, consider ‘Regal Prince’ Oak or the narrow ‘Armstrong Gold’ Maple — both colorful and space-friendly. Crabapples like ‘Red Jewel’ add bright fruit that persists into winter without the mess of older varieties. Other standouts include ‘Whitespire’ Birch with smooth white bark and yellow fall leaves, and the fan-shaped golden foliage of ‘Autumn Gold’ Ginkgo.

With our long winters, evergreens deserve special attention. Boxwood and Yews provide year-round structure, while Pines, Spruce, and Fir add height and texture. ‘Vanderwolf’ Pine, with soft blue-green needles and a compact form, is perfect for suburban lots. Breeders are also introducing more small, unusual evergreens — great for colorful accents and winter interest.

By mixing these trees and shrubs into your landscape, you’ll enjoy a garden that dazzles in fall and continues to provide beauty throughout the year. Visit local forest preserves, stroll your neighborhood, or stop by a garden center for even more inspiration.