As the temperatures dip and pumpkin spice takes over, it’s the perfect time to think about bringing a splash of autumn color to your Atlanta landscape. While we might not have the crisp, fiery reds of New England, we’re lucky to have an array of trees and shrubs that bring fall color to our southern yards. Here’s a roundup of some Atlanta-friendly options that will add a vibrant, seasonal touch to your outdoor space.
1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
For a show-stopping display, Japanese maples are unbeatable. With varieties offering shades from rich crimson to bright orange, these elegant trees fit beautifully in Atlanta landscapes. They’re ideal for smaller yards and work well as focal points in garden beds. Japanese maples enjoy morning sun and afternoon shade, making them perfect for those dappled spots in your yard.
2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Want a native beauty that can handle the Georgia climate? Look no further than the red maple. Known for its vibrant orange and red foliage, the red maple provides a classic fall color palette. They’re also fast-growing and tolerant of many soil types, so if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, this one’s a winner. Place it in a spot with full sun to partial shade for best results.
3. Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
If you’re looking for fall color in a shrub, the oakleaf hydrangea is a must-have. Known for its white summer blooms, this shrub transforms in fall, with leaves turning shades of burgundy, purple, and red. It’s a native plant and thrives in Atlanta’s hot, humid climate. Plus, it’s great for partial shade areas and makes a gorgeous addition to mixed borders or woodland gardens.
4. Dogwood (Cornus florida)
The classic dogwood tree isn’t just for spring! In fall, its leaves turn a beautiful reddish-purple, providing subtle yet rich autumn color. The bright red berries also add a bit of seasonal flair while attracting birds. Dogwoods prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them a lovely addition to an established garden.
5. Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
This shrub is aptly named, producing clusters of bright purple berries that pop against its golden fall foliage. Native to the Southeast, beautyberry is not only beautiful but also tough. It tolerates Georgia’s humidity and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The colorful berries are a favorite among birds, so if you’re looking to support local wildlife, this shrub is a perfect choice.
6. Sweetspire (Itea virginica)
A lesser-known fall gem, sweetspire’s leaves transform into a tapestry of red, orange, and purple hues. This native shrub is low-maintenance and can tolerate both wet and dry soils. Its size makes it perfect for foundation plantings or as a border shrub, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
7. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Known for its fan-shaped leaves, the ginkgo tree turns a stunning shade of bright yellow in the fall, creating a golden glow. Ginkgos are incredibly hardy, drought-tolerant, and adapt well to urban environments. Just be sure to plant a male ginkgo tree—female trees produce fruit with an unpleasant smell.
Ready to Plant Your Fall Favorites?
Adding one or more of these trees and shrubs can transform your Atlanta landscape into an autumn oasis. From the fiery reds of the red maple to the striking yellows of the ginkgo, there’s a perfect plant for every yard. Need help getting started? Contact us to bring some fall brilliance to your landscape this season!
