There’s something magical about fall in Pennsylvania. The weather is crisp, waterfalls are flowing, and the changing leaves are some of the most colorful you’ll find anywhere in the northeast. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, there are 134 native and 62 introduced species of trees found in the state. And the majority of those transform into glittering displays of reds, yellows, and purples. Here are some of the best Pennsylvania Trees that add to the diverse pallet of fall colors.
Red Maple
Found throughout PA in a wide variety of habitats, these robust trees can grow over one-hundred feet tall! In the fall you will find gorgeous red and orange foliage on the red maple. It grows best in wet soils. But be warned, young red maples are heavily browsed by deer and rabbits. But if you can see them through to their mature stage, you won’t regret this fall beauty!
Northern Red Oak
The Northern Red Oak is a dominant forest tree throughout the state. It’s a favorite of local wildlife like deer, bear, and many other mammals and birds eat the acorns. And the hard, strong wood is used for furniture, flooring, millwork, railroad ties and veneer. But our favorite thing about this tree is the vibrant red fall foliage.
American Beech
The American Beech is abundant in northern Pennsylvania. Another favorite of wildlife, beechnuts are a very important source of food for wildlife including bears, squirrels, and grouse; Beech is a handsome shade tree in the spring and summer. Especially perfect for large open areas in parks and golf courses. But of course, the fall is our favorite with their varied yellow and bronze leaves.
American Elm
The American Elm is a large and highly prized shade tree. And it’s unique crown often gives it a wonderful vase-shaped appearance. Found locally throughout Pennsylvania, mainly on moist areas, they are often prized for their golden yellow autumn colors.
Black Cherry
Another of our golden favorites is the Black Cherry. It’s commonly found throughout the state. The hard-reddish-brown wood is highly prized for quality furniture and interior trim. Many game birds and songbirds are attracted to the fruit and seeds.
White Ash
It shades many parks, large yards, and other sizable areas and provides exquisite fall colors ranging from yellow to deep purple and maroon. Beyond its landscape value, the tree has made its mark as the wood used to make baseball bats. And the juice from the leaf has been reported to relieve mosquito bite itching!
Unfortunately, the white ash is coming under attack by the emerald ash borer, which is spreading across the state and country.
Good’s Tree Care provides services for large and small tree planting projects alike. We can also provide site analysis and can make recommendations for suitable species selection based on site conditions.
