Fall Color at Grelen: Trees That Steal the Show

Photos by Hank G. Media

There’s something magical about autumn in Virginia, and at Grelen our tree nursery becomes one of the most breathtaking displays of the season. Thanks to thoughtful planting and grouping, the landscape transforms into a sweeping canvas of reds, oranges, golds, and purples. If you’ve ever wondered which trees put on the most striking fall performance, here are the standouts you’ll see at Grelen.

Maples

Red Maples: Brilliant scarlet, orange, and yellow, often all at once.

Sugar Maples: Warm golden oranges that embody the classic fall look.

Japanese Maples: Graceful, delicate leaves that turn vibrant shades of crimson or burgundy.

Oaks

Scarlet and Red Oaks: Rich reds that hold late into the season.

White Oaks: Softer tones of reddish purple to muted brown for depth.

Pin Oaks: Rusty reds that linger into early winter.

Sweetgum

Star-shaped leaves that shift into a mix of purple, red, orange, and yellow—sometimes all on the same tree.

Dogwood

Famous for spring blooms, but equally beautiful in fall, with deep red leaves and clusters of bright red berries.

Black Gum (Tupelo)

Among the first trees to turn, showcasing vivid crimson shades that stand out against surrounding greenery.

Sourwood

A hidden gem—leaves that turn brilliant red and purple, accented by white seed clusters.

Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)

A true showstopper, this small ornamental tree explodes with fiery red and orange foliage. Its symmetrical canopy and vivid color make it a standout in any landscape.

Persian Parrotia (Parrotia persica)

Known for its multi-colored fall display, this tree’s leaves shift from yellow to orange to deep burgundy. It’s a painter’s palette of color that lasts late into the season.

Japanese Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia)

Elegant and refined, with leaves that turn shades of copper, red, and orange. The smooth, exfoliating bark adds visual interest long after the leaves have fallen.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Distinct fan-shaped leaves turn a brilliant golden yellow before carpeting the ground in a sea of color—a fall favorite for good reason.

American Smoketree (Cotinus obovatus)

Known for its smoky summer plumes, this tree transforms in autumn with bold hues of red, orange, and purple that seem to glow from within.

Evergreens

While they stay green, species like pine, spruce, and holly provide contrast and make the fall colors around them pop even more.

Experience the Season at Grelen

With the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop and a carefully curated mix of species, The Market at Grelen is one of Virginia’s most stunning destinations for fall color. Whether you’re visiting for a wedding, a workshop, or simply to enjoy a walk through the nursery, you’ll find the landscape at its most inspiring in autumn.