- According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, red leaf color is determined by a group of cell pigments called anthocyanins. Trees produce anthocyanin pigments from chlorophyll trapped within the leaves after the manufacture of chlorophyll ceases in the fall. Reddish-orange and bronze leaf color is created when anthocyanin pigments combine with carotenoids (yellow and orange pigments).
- Bright, sunny days and cool, crisp evenings produce the most intense red colors, according to the University of Illinois Extension. Cloudy conditions reduce the production of anthocyanin, resulting in weaker coloration; heavy wind and rain can wipe out the leaf display overnight.
- Fall leaf color is indicative of certain types of trees. According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, trees that bear red or purplish-red autumn foliage include the persimmon, red maple, dogwood, sweet gum and certain types of oak.
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