Trees with Pink Leaves in Fall: 10 Gorgeous Varieties for Vibrant Autumn Color

When fall arrives, vivid red and orange leaves dominate the autumn landscape But for an unexpected twist on fall foliage, consider adding trees with pink leaves into the mix Various trees produce leaves ranging from blushing pink to neon magenta, lighting up your yard with unique color.

Pink-leaved trees provide striking contrast against conventional fall hues. They add visual interest and a punch of color when mixed into the landscape. Backlit by the sun, their rosy foliage positively glows.

If you’re looking to spice up your yard with unconventional shades this fall explore these 10 options for trees with pink leaves

1. Pink Flair Cherry (Prunus sargentii ‘Pink Flair’)

One of the strongest pink-leafed trees, Pink Flair Cherry foliage emerges a striking bubblegum pink color in spring. The color fades to green in summer then returns to a bold magenta-pink in fall before dropping. The small flowering cherry tree has an oval to vase shape and grows 15-25 feet tall and wide. Plant it in full sun for the brightest color.

2. Prunus x ‘Pink Snow Showers’

This hybrid flowering cherry cultivar displays light pink leaves with white variegation when young. The leaves transition to green in summer then return to pinkish-red tones in autumn. Fragrant shell pink flowers in spring are an added bonus. The compact tree reaches just 15 feet tall and wide at maturity. Prunus x ‘Pink Snow Showers’ needs full sun and well-drained soil.

3. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple is known for its flaming fall color ranging from scarlet to orange. But before the leaves shift completely, the five-lobed leaves briefly pass through shades of vibrant pink. This large shade tree provides a kaleidoscope of autumn hues from its 40-60 foot spread. Plant Red Maple in full sun to partial shade and irrigate regularly for best growth.

4. Trident Maple (Acer buergerianum)

A lovely small understory tree, Trident Maple delivers a symphony of fall colors. Its three-pronged leaves transition from green to hues of pink, red, orange and yellow before dropping. Trident Maple peaks at 20-30 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for smaller yards. Provide partial shade and evenly moist soil.

5. Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum)

Valued for its exfoliating coppery bark, Paperbark Maple also provides fantastic fall interest. The tri-lobed leaves turn brilliant crimson and pink before falling in autumn. Remaining curled leaves add texture while clinging to the branches into winter. Paperbark Maple thrives in full sun to partial shade and reaches 20-30 feet in height.

6. Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)

Native to northeastern Asia, Amur Maple is another small tree perfect for fall color. Its foliage transforms from green to hues of bright red, orange and hot pink before dropping to unveil its striated bark. It matures at 15-20 feet tall in an oval to spreading shape. Provide full sun to partial shade and occasional irrigation.

7. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)

Flowering Dogwood is beloved for its showy spring blooms and red fall berries. But its oval green leaves also morph to dusky shades of deep pink and purple in autumn, adding multi-season interest. The small understory tree grows 15-30 feet tall and wide. Partial shade and evenly moist, acidic soil creates ideal conditions.

8. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)

Chinese Pistache is a lovely medium-sized tree valued for fall color. Its pinnately compound leaves transition from green to fiery shades of orange, red and hot pink before shedding. Chinese Pistache grows 30-50 feet tall and wide in an upright oval shape. Plant it in full sun and provide moderate irrigation.

9. Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum)

A native woodland tree in the southeastern United States, Sourwood dazzles in autumn. Long stalks of white bell-shaped flowers in summer give way to glowing foliage in shades of scarlet, deep pink and purple. Plant Sourwood as an understory species, as it only reaches 20-30 feet tall. Partial shade and acidic soil provides an ideal environment.

10. Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli)

Cockspur Hawthorn is a small flowering tree that delivers profuse white blooms in spring followed by persistent red berries. The oval-shaped canopy shows off hues of pink, red and purple as the glossy green leaves change color in fall. It matures at 20-30 feet tall and wide. Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.

Beyond this list, various ornamental cherries, crabapples, and smaller maple species share the potential for pink to neon red fall foliage. Consult local nurseries to find varieties suited for your growing zone.

With their unique colors, pink-leaved trees are sure to spice up your autumn landscape. Add one as a focal point or mix varieties together for a colorful display. Brighten up your fall with the unconventional beauty of pink leaves!