The Ultimate Guide to Planting Trees for a Vibrant Autumn

Transform your garden into a vibrant autumn paradise. Explore our curated collection of trees, from the fiery reds of the 'October Glory' Maple to the golden elegance of the Ginkgo. Discover the perfect specimen to add structure, shade, and lasting value to your landscape. Visit www.evergreentrees.com.au

The Ultimate Guide to Planting Trees for a Vibrant Autumn

Transform your garden into a symphony of autumnal hues with our meticulously selected trees. From vibrant reds and oranges to striking yellows and deep burgundies, these specimens offer more than just seasonal colour; they provide structure, shade, and enduring value to your property. Explore our collection and discover the perfect tree to elevate your landscape. 

1. Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' – The Epitome of Structured Elegance

The Pyrus 'Capital', a narrow and upright ornamental pear, makes a powerful statement in formal plantings, along driveways, or in confined spaces. Its brilliant red-orange autumn display is followed by a clean, elegant winter silhouette, offering year-round visual interest.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • A fast-growing, narrow form ideal for tight spaces or avenue plantings.
  • Year-round appeal, transitioning from lush green spring foliage to fiery autumn colours.
  • A low-maintenance, adaptable species that thrives in various soil conditions.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A broad shade tree – its growth habit is tall and narrow.
  • A native species – this is a classic ornamental feature tree.

Mature Size: 10-12m tall, 3-4m wide

Growth Rate: Fast

Best For: Avenue plantings, structured gardens, narrow spaces. Invest in the 'Capital' for a touch of refined formality.

2. Acer palmatum – The Quintessential Japanese Maple

The Japanese Maple remains a perennial favourite for refined landscapes. Its delicate, deeply lobed foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds in autumn. Its compact size makes it perfectly suited for smaller gardens, courtyards, and feature plantings.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • A sculptural, compact tree offering a rich tapestry of seasonal colour.
  • A statement piece for small gardens, courtyards, or even container planting.
  • A slow-growing tree with an elegant, architectural presence.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A fast-growing shade tree – Japanese Maples mature gracefully over time.
  • A tree that thrives in full sun and extreme heat – prefers cooler climates or partial shade.

Mature Size: 4-6m tall, 3-5m wide

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Best For: Feature plantings, small gardens, Asian-inspired landscapes. 

3. Acer rubrum 'October Glory' – The Unrivaled Red Maple

Renowned for its intense scarlet foliage, Acer rubrum 'October Glory' delivers an unparalleled autumn spectacle. Its bold red tones persist longer than most maples, and its rapid growth makes it an excellent choice for shade and seasonal impact.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • The richest, most vibrant red autumn colour with extended foliage display.
  • A fast-growing feature tree providing excellent summer shade.
  • A tough, adaptable tree that performs well in a variety of conditions.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A compact tree – this is a large, statement-making specimen.
  • A tree for very dry areas – prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Mature Size: 12-15m tall, 10m wide

Growth Rate: Fast

Best For: Large gardens, avenue plantings, shade trees, high-impact autumn colour. Make a bold statement with the 'October Glory'.

4. Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' – The Dramatic Burgundy Feature

The 'Forest Pansy' Redbud offers year-round visual interest. Its deep purple, heart-shaped leaves transition to fiery reds and oranges in autumn. Coupled with soft pink blossoms in early spring, this tree is a true multi-seasonal performer.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • A small to medium-sized ornamental tree with dramatic foliage colour.
  • A multi-seasonal feature – pink spring flowers, burgundy summer leaves, and vibrant autumn hues.
  • A standout specimen that adds contrast and warmth to any garden design.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A neutral background tree – this is a bold, attention-grabbing variety.
  • A fast-growing tree – moderate growth, but the long-lasting beauty is worth the wait.

Mature Size: 6-8m tall, 5-6m wide

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best For: Feature plantings, ornamental gardens, adding bold contrast. The 'Forest Pansy' provides year-round drama.

5. Liquidambar styraciflua – The Kaleidoscopic Masterpiece

The Liquidambar (Sweet Gum) is celebrated for its exceptional autumn foliage, displaying a spectrum of colours from deep red and purple to orange and gold. This large, commanding tree is perfect for expansive landscapes and statement plantings.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • One of the most stunning autumn displays, showcasing a wide range of colours.
  • A large, fast-growing tree that provides dense summer shade.
  • A resilient tree that tolerates urban conditions, wind, and varied soil types.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A small or compact tree – this is a substantial landscape tree.
  • A tree without surface roots – plant away from paved areas.

Mature Size: 20-25m tall, 12m wide

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Best For: Large gardens, parks, avenue plantings, high-impact autumn colour. Experience the full spectrum of autumn with the Liquidambar.

6Ginkgo biloba – The Timeless Golden Giant

The Ginkgo biloba (Maidenhair Tree) is a long-lived species with unique fan-shaped leaves. These leaves turn a spectacular golden yellow in autumn, creating a breathtaking display.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • A unique, architectural tree with striking autumn foliage.
  • A hardy, adaptable species that thrives in urban environments.
  • A long-term investment in beauty.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A fast-growing tree – Ginkgos mature over time.
  • An evergreen – this is a deciduous species.

Mature Size: 15-30m tall, 10m wide

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Best For: Feature trees, large landscapes, historic-style plantings.

Invest in a timeless classic with the Ginkgo biloba. 7. Nyssa sylvatica – The Underrated Autumn Gem

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Gum) is a truly exceptional autumn tree, producing deep red, orange, and purple foliage for a breathtaking display. Its glossy green summer leaves transition into a bold autumn spectacle, making it an ideal feature tree.

Choose this tree if you want:

  • A medium-sized tree with exceptional autumn colour.
  • A strong, well-formed shade tree adaptable to various conditions.
  • A unique alternative to maples and oaks, offering striking seasonal interest.

It might not be the best option if you want:

  • A very fast-growing tree – moderate growth, but develops beautifully over time.
  • A tree for very dry climates – prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Mature Size: 15m tall, 8-12m wide

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best For: Feature trees, parks, high-impact autumn colour. *Discover the beauty of the underrated Nyssa sylvatica. *

Craft Your Autumn Landscape Today

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