Eight Native Shrubs and Trees with Midwestern Fall Color

Table of Contents

• Why native trees and shrubs are important for the midwestern environment
• How to choose the right native species
• The 8 top native Midwest trees and shrubs for autumn color

As fall approaches, many people start to think about adding some colorful foliage to their garden or landscape. While there are plenty of non-native options available, choosing native trees and shrubs has several benefits for both the environment and your yard.

Why native trees and shrubs are important for the midwestern environment

Native species have adapted to the climate of the region and provide food and habitat for local wildlife, such as birds and insects. They also require less water and fertilizer than non-native species, making them more sustainable and eco-friendly choices.

How to choose the right native species

When choosing native species for your garden or landscape, it's important to consider factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and water availability. The following eight native trees and shrubs all offer beautiful fall color and are well-suited to the midwestern climate.

Eight Native Shrubs and Trees with Midwestern Fall Color

1. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

Perhaps the most iconic fall tree in North America, the sugar maple offers stunning red, orange, and yellow leaves in autumn. It's a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 100 feet tall, so make sure you have plenty of space before planting one.

2. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

The eastern redbud is a smaller tree, typically growing to around 20-30 feet tall. Its heart-shaped leaves turn a vibrant yellow in the fall, and it also produces pink or purple flowers in the spring.

3. Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

Red oaks are a common sight in the midwestern region, with their distinctive lobed leaves turning shades of red, orange, and brown in the fall. They can grow up to 80 feet tall and require plenty of space to spread out.

4. Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica)

The black tupelo, also known as the sour gum tree, offers stunning foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. It's a slow-growing tree that typically reaches around 50 feet tall.

5. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

While witch hazel is perhaps best known for its medicinal properties, it also has beautiful fall foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It's a versatile plant that can be grown as a shrub or small tree.

6. Sumac (Rhus glabra)

Sumac is a hardy shrub that offers bright red foliage in the fall. It's a good choice if you're looking to add some color to your garden or landscape without planting a large tree.

7. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

The Virginia creeper is a climbing vine that can also be grown as a ground cover. Its leaves turn a vibrant red in the fall, making it a great option for adding some color to walls or fences.

8. Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)

Another type of sumac, the staghorn sumac offers bright yellow, orange, and red foliage in the fall. It's a low-maintenance shrub that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions.

By choosing native trees and shrubs for autumn color, you can both support the midwestern environment and add some beautiful colors to your garden or landscape. Be sure to choose species that are well-suited to your climate and growing conditions, and consider other factors such as size and maintenance requirements before planting.

FAQ

• Why is it important to choose native species for your garden or landscape? Native species are more sustainable and eco-friendly, and provide food and habitat for local wildlife.

• What other benefits do native trees and shrubs offer besides fall color? They require less water and fertilizer than non-native species, and are often better adapted to local soil and weather conditions.

• How do I ensure that these trees and shrubs will thrive in my area? Be sure to choose species that are well-suited to your climate and growing conditions, and follow proper planting and care instructions.

• Can I plant non-native species for their fall color instead? While non-native species can add some stunning colors to your garden or landscape, they may not be as well adapted to your local environment and could require more maintenance.

• What is the best time of year to plant these trees and shrubs? Spring and fall are typically the best times to plant trees and shrubs, when temperatures are mild and there is plenty of moisture in the soil.

• How much maintenance do these trees and shrubs require? Maintenance requirements vary depending on the species, but most native trees and shrubs require minimal pruning and fertilizer.

• Are there any potential downsides to planting native trees and shrubs? Native species can be more susceptible to disease or pests in certain conditions, so be sure to choose species that are well-suited to your local environment.

• How can I learn more about other native plant species for the midwestern region? There are plenty of resources available online or through local nurseries and gardening organizations.

• Where can I buy native trees and shrubs for my garden or landscape? Many local nurseries and gardening centers carry a variety of native species, or you can order them online.

• What are some other tips for creating a beautiful fall landscape with native species? Consider pairing different species with complementary colors and textures, and incorporate other fall elements such as pumpkins or gourds.