Top Trees for Fall Color in California

Most people think sun and palm trees, but Southern California has fall foliage too!  Beautiful garden trees brighten up our cities with their vibrant autumn colors.  Keep an eye out for these beauties from October to January.

The Ginkgo tree is the first one that comes to mind with its large oak-like trunk.  This tree turns from a luscious green to a brilliant yellow/gold color all at once.  Expect to see this beauty around Christmas time as it makes a golden carpet of leaves on the ground. Here's a look at these golden beauties: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/394065036116100724/

The Chinese Pistache is also a California favorite.  Most of the year this tree goes un noticed.  The Pistache really comes to life in autumn with its orange, yellow, and red leaves. Check out the array of colors it produces: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/251709066647280783/

The Japanese Maple and the Japanese Persimmon bring us fall coloring and delicious fruit.  The Japanese Maple is a strong tree that can tolerate more sun and heat.  Choose from a variety of colors, the Japanese Maple steals the show.  It’s sister, the Japanese Persimmon may not be as luscious and beautiful, but it bears the delicious persimmon fruit.  This tree is perfect for Halloween because of its bare branches and orange fruit, which resemble hanging pumpkin lanterns. If you want to take trip to enjoy the foliage in person this year, Southern California's best places are typically: Temecula, Mt. Laguna and Julian. Of course if you are willing to make the trek to Yosemite you'll find some wold-class autumn scenery there.

California native trees that also yield beautiful fall colors every year: 
•  California Black Oak
•  Southern California Black Walnut
•  Mountain dogwood
•  California Sycamore