As the cool October air sweeps through Michigan, nature begins to put on one of its most stunning displays—fall foliage. The leaves turn into a kaleidoscope of fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows, transforming landscapes into works of art. If you’re looking to bring the beauty of Michigan’s fall colors to your own backyard, choosing the right trees and shrubs is key. Here are some of the best options for vibrant fall foliage that will make your landscape pop with color.
1. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)
If you’re looking for a tree that steals the show in autumn, the Sugar Maple is a top contender. Known for its brilliant red, orange, and yellow fall foliage, this tree is a staple of Michigan’s landscapes. Growing up to 75 feet tall, it provides ample shade in the summer and a stunning burst of color in the fall. The Sugar Maple thrives in Michigan’s climate, making it a perfect addition to any yard.
- Best for: Large yards needing a focal point
- Fall Color: Red, orange, and yellow
- Maintenance Tip: Keep an eye on the soil moisture, as Sugar Maples prefer well-drained soils.
3. Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus)
For an eye-catching shrub, look no further than the aptly named Burning Bush. In the fall, its green leaves turn into a dazzling shade of crimson, creating a dramatic splash of color in your landscape. This low-maintenance shrub is perfect for hedges, borders, or as a standalone statement plant.
- Best for: Small to medium yards, hedge planting
- Fall Color: Vivid red
- Maintenance Tip: Burning Bush shrubs are highly adaptable but grow best in well-drained soil and full sunlight.
4. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
Serviceberry is a multi-season wonder that provides interest in every season. In the spring, it bursts with delicate white flowers, followed by edible berries in the summer, and finally, a beautiful array of yellow, orange, and red fall foliage. This small tree or large shrub is perfect for bringing fall color to smaller spaces.
- Best for: Small yards or as an accent tree
- Fall Color: Red, orange, and yellow
- Maintenance Tip: Serviceberries thrive in well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade.
2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Another standout tree for fall foliage is the Red Maple. True to its name, this tree features striking red leaves, though they can also take on orange and yellow hues. Red Maples are versatile, growing in a variety of soil conditions, which makes them a popular choice for Michigan homeowners.
- Best for: Medium to large yards
- Fall Color: Bright red, with some yellow and orange
- Maintenance Tip: Plant Red Maples in areas that receive full sun for the most vibrant colors.
5. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
Witch Hazel is a unique choice that not only offers vibrant yellow fall foliage but also blooms in late autumn with spidery yellow flowers, making it stand out in any landscape. This shrub is an excellent choice for adding a golden glow to your yard, even after most other plants have lost their leaves.
- Best for: Small to medium yards, woodland gardens
- Fall Color: Yellow
- Maintenance Tip: Plant Witch Hazel in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun for best results.
6. Oak Trees (Quercus spp.)
Oak trees, such as the Northern Red Oak or White Oak, are iconic in Michigan. Their fall foliage turns rich shades of red, brown, and bronze, providing a warm and earthy contrast to the more vibrant yellows and oranges of other trees. Oaks are hardy and long-lasting, making them a great investment for the long-term beauty of your landscape.
- Best for: Large yards, naturalistic settings
- Fall Color: Red, bronze, brown
- Maintenance Tip: Oaks require minimal pruning and are generally low-maintenance once established.
7. Sumac (Rhus typhina)
For bold, fiery red and orange tones, Sumac is hard to beat. This shrub or small tree adds vibrant fall foliage to any landscape and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Sumac is particularly stunning in groupings or mass plantings where its fall color can create a dramatic effect.
- Best for: Large yards, wild or natural gardens
- Fall Color: Red, orange, and yellow
- Maintenance Tip: Sumacs are low-maintenance but spread easily, so keep an eye on their growth to prevent them from overtaking other plants.
With Michigan’s unique climate and soil conditions, these trees and shrubs are well-suited to bring brilliant fall foliage to your landscape. Whether you’re working with a large yard or a small space, there’s a perfect tree or shrub for every landscape design. By planting these vibrant options, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of autumn right in your own backyard for years to come.
If you’re ready to add some fall color to your yard, contact us today for expert advice and professional planting services. Let’s make your landscape the envy of the neighborhood this October!
Our founder, Ryan Farnol, is a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor® (CAC). Born and raised in West Michigan, Ryan attended Cornerstone University where he earned a degree in Business Administration.
In 2006, Ryan began his landscaping career in the High Rockies of Colorado, honing his skills with natural stone and water features. He is an expert landscape designer and builder, and meticulously oversees each project from design to installation.
Hard work, communication, and innovation are the hallmarks of his business.