Fall Foliage Favorites

Dan Gregg’s Top Tree Picks to enjoy Autumn Color

As the founder of Grelen Nursery, Dan Gregg has a deep appreciation for the beauty that trees bring to our landscapes, especially during the fall season. Here are some of his favorite tree varieties that showcase vibrant colors and add charm to any garden in autumn.

Sugar Maples on the Grelen Trails captured by Hank G Media

1. Pistacia chinensis (Chinese Pistache)

Zone 6 to 9 Red and orange

The Pistacia chinensis, commonly known as the Chinese Pistache, is a standout tree, particularly prized for its brilliant fall display of bright red to orange hues. Its stunning autumn foliage, combined with a unique branching structure, makes it a focal point in any landscape.

This hardy, drought-tolerant tree thrives in a wide range of soil types, making it a versatile and low-maintenance choice for gardens, parks, and urban settings.

Not only does the Chinese Pistache add vibrant seasonal color, but its broad canopy also provides excellent shade, making it an attractive and practical addition to any outdoor space.

2. Stewartia pseudocamellia (Japanese Stewartia) Zone 5-8

Red and orange

The Stewartia pseudocamellia, or Japanese Stewartia, showcases a brilliant red and orange tone during the fall season. Beyond its vibrant autumn display, this tree is known for its beautiful exfoliating bark, which adds texture and visual interest year-round. In the summer, it produces delicate, camellia-like white flowers that further enhance its charm. This tree thrives in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade, making it a perfect fit for gardens that value both seasonal color and long-term beauty, a true gem for adding elegance and variety to any landscape.

3. All Dogwood Varieties and Cultivars (Cornus florida and Cornus kousa)

Zone 3-7 Rich burgundy and deep red tones

These trees are known for their breathtaking autumn transformation, turning rich burgundy and deep red tones, adding vibrant color to any garden. Dogwoods also offer year-round appeal with their attractive bark and elegant branching structure & they are also often celebrated for their stunning spring blooms. Beyond their beauty, these trees are excellent for attracting wildlife, as their berries provide a valuable food source for birds and pollinators. With their multi-season interest and wildlife-friendly nature, Dogwoods are a must-have for any landscape.

4. Sugar Maples (Acer saccharum) Zone 3-8

Bright yellow, orange, and red

Sugar Maple Green Mountain Tree captured by Molly Lichten Photography at The Market at Grelen

Sugar Maples are iconic trees, renowned for their spectacular fall display of bright yellow, orange, and red hues. As the source of delicious maple syrup, these trees offer both aesthetic and practical value. Sugar Maples thrive in well-drained soil and can grow quite large, making them an excellent choice for providing ample shade in landscapes. Their vibrant autumn color and majestic size make them a popular choice for parks, large gardens, and properties looking to showcase the best of fall.

5. Red Maples (Acer rubrum) Zone 3-9

Red & Orange

Red Maples are known for their striking red and orange fall colors that light up any landscape. This fast-growing tree is highly adaptable, thriving in a wide range of soil conditions, from wet to dry, making it a versatile option for many environments. Red Maples not only offer stunning autumn beauty but also provide shade and structure throughout the year. Their hardiness and brilliant seasonal display make them a favorite for parks, gardens, and residential landscapes.

6. Ginkgo biloba Zone 4-9

Bright yellow

Renowned for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves and its dazzling yellow fall display. As the leaves turn a vibrant gold the tree transforms into a breathtaking autumn spectacle.

Ginkgos are incredibly resilient, thriving in urban environments where they can tolerate pollution, poor soil, and other challenging conditions. Their durability and stunning seasonal color make them an excellent choice for city streets, parks, and residential landscapes, where they provide both beauty and adaptability year-round.

As fall approaches, consider adding these beautiful tree varieties to your landscape for a spectacular display of autumn colors. Dan Gregg's favorites not only enhance your garden's beauty but also provide numerous environmental benefits. Visit Grelen Nursery to explore our selection and find the perfect tree for your outdoor space!

Read More about Trees in the fall on the Grelen Blog on how Fall is The Perfect Time to Plant Tress