Travels with Charlie: Why Are the Leaves Red?

Story & Photos by Gordon Snyder

Charlie found the best crunchy, smelly bed for Joyful Roll. Above him, the bright tree canopy got me wondering… Why are those Leaves Red?

Turns out > Red leaves build their color from scratch. Crisp sun and trapped sugars create a red pigment called Anthocyanin. That makes this Sweetgum leaf glow.

Why make Anthocyanin right before winter? Anthocyanin acts like a plant sunscreen for the red leaves you see. This Red Maple uses that red shield to protect its leaves while pulling in the last of the fall nutrients.

Fall is falling; so try to get outside before winter takes over. You'll notice those fiery red leaves are actively brewing Anthocyanin before winter.

Cheers,
Gordon Snyder