November 9, 2023

The temperature has fallen (… sort of) and so have the leaves! With beautiful autumn colors and excellent crunchy leaves all around, it’s sometimes tricky to tell exactly what we’re seeing. Though not at all an exhaustive list, check out the guide below to help you identify foliage you see around the Museum and in your own backyard.

Sweetgum
(Liquidambar styraciflua)

White oak (varieties)
(Quercus alba)

Pin oak
(Quercus palustris)

Longleaf pine
(Pinus palustris)

Elm
(Ulmus americana)

Black gum
(Nyssa sylvatica)

Red maple
(Acer rubrum)

Tulip poplar
(Liriodendron tulipifera)

Red bud
(Cercis canadensis)

Wild grape vine
(Vitis riparia)

Did you know that the leaves on the ground are known as “leaf litter” and provide wildlife with shelter from the colder fall and winter weather? Many species of moths, butterflies, and other insects rely on the coverage for protection during hibernation.

For more fall colors, check out Museum Naturalist Ranger Greg’s blog!