Why Do Leaves Change Color

In autumn, many trees put on a beautiful show of color. Green leaves turn red, orange, yellow, and gold. This happens because the trees are getting ready for winter. They stop making the green pigment that hides the other colors that were in the leaves all along.

The Hidden Colors

Leaves look green in summer because they are full of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is the green pigment plants use to capture sunlight and make food. But leaves also have yellow and orange pigments hiding underneath. In autumn, trees stop making chlorophyll. The green fades away and the hidden colors show through.

Where Red Comes From

Red and purple colors come from a pigment called anthocyanin. Trees make this pigment in the fall. Sunny days and cool nights help create the brightest red leaves. Sugar maple trees are famous for their brilliant red fall color. The best fall colors happen when autumn has warm, sunny days and cool nights.

Fun Facts

• Evergreen trees like pine and spruce keep their green needles all year round.
• New England in the United States is famous for its spectacular fall leaf colors.
• Some trees, like aspens, turn a brilliant golden yellow in the fall.

Did You Know?

Trees that lose their leaves in autumn are called deciduous trees. Dropping their leaves helps them save water and energy during the cold winter months when there is less sunlight for making food!