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As most plants begin to fade, these ones take the limelight! Dazzle your garden with plants that actually look better in fall than summer!
Most plants are at their visual best in spring and summer, but these ones stand out of the pack! They are truly “late bloomers” as their appeal arrives later than usual but makes an impact! So if you don’t want a dull, barren garden during the autumn season, grow these plants to transform your plant collection into a botanical fall paradise!
Plants That Actually Look Better in Fall Than Summer
1. Japanese Maple
Botanical Name: Acer palmatum
Although you won’t be able to grow these beauties indoors, your backyard will never have a dull day in the fall season because of them! This short tree, native to Korea and Japan (hence the name), stuns people with its beautiful deep red and orange colors that intensify in the fall season.
It grows quite slowly and does best in dappled shade and evenly moist, well-drained soil protected from drying breezes. Plant multiple varieties and cultivars of the Japanese Maple in your garden as each brings a completely distinct color!
2. Dahlias
Botanical Name: Dahlia
If you don’t mind a plant that is considered to be high-maintenance and beautifies your garden in the fall, Dahlias are the ones to go for! Although they might be a hassle to control due to their rapid growth rate, it is worth it during their blooming season from late summer to fall.
They require a cool environment along with moist yet well-draining soil to survive. In fact, summer heat makes them languish. With the right care and conditions, your garden will be filled with cute aster-like blooms in almost every color (depending on the variety).
3. Virginia Creeper
Botanical Name: Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Some beauty is meant to be admired from a distance! This fast-growing vine’s looks drastically change from the basic green in summer to and explosion of deep crimson and burgundy during fall! But beware, despite its attractive appearance, it hides a deadly secret! The fruit of this plant is highly toxic and can even lead to fatalities.
It is perfect for bordering homes that don’t have curious toddlers or pets and can grow in average, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. It requires little care and even does well in saline and polluted environments.
4. Oakleaf Hydrangea
Botanical Name: Hydrangea quercifolia
The Oakleaf Hydrangea is the chameleon of the botanical world! It is known for its creamy flowers that bloom in late spring and summer and gradually fade to tan in fall. But that’s not all; its dark green foliage transforms into shades of orange, red, and purple, which makes this plant an artist’s dream!
It requires organically rich soil and mulching to retain moisture. The plant does need some sun to bloom, usually from mid-spring to early summer. Even its peeling cinnamon-colored bark contributes winter interest after fall ends.
5. Burning Bush
Botanical Name: Euonymus alatus
With such a quirky name, you know this plant is going to turn heads! During summer, this shrub blends in with ordinary green foliage, but autumn is when the real magic begins! Its foliage changes into a bright red shade, which gives the appearance of being on fire!
The burning bush is not too picky when it comes to its growing needs, as it can survive in woodland edges, forests, on roadsides, and even disturbed areas. As a matter of fact, you will have to control its growth as it is a prolific seeder.
6. Beautyberry
Botanical Name: Callicarpa americana
Most plants on this list are included due to their gorgeous fall foliage or late-blooming characteristics, but the Beautyberry stands out because its claim to fame is its clusters of purple berries! It also has a golden deciduous fall leaf color which creates a striking contrast.
This shrub is a sun-lover and is not tolerant of deep shade. It usually grows to 8 feet tall, so you may need to invest in a pair of good pruning shears. Plant the beautyberry around your home to attract native birds that feast on its berries.
Check out these succulents that bloom in summer to complete your seasonal garden!
7. Asters
Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum
Are you a fan of daisies? But they won’t be able to bloom in the fall season! So Asters are a great replacement! They come alive from summer all the way to late fall with cute purple, pink, blue, and white daisy-like blooms.
There are over 100 species in their genus, each different than the other in terms of growing needs and foliage form. However, generally, they prefer moderately fertile, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
8. Heavenly Bamboo
Botanical Name: Nandina domestica
The Heavenly Bamboo might seem like a regular bushy plant in the summer with small, almost unnoticeable flower clusters, but in fall the bright red berries steal the show! The leaves also develop a rustic coloration as the season changes.
But similar to the Virginia Creeper, this plant is also toxic. The fruits, leaves, and stems contain a compound called hydrogen cyanide, which is poisonous to both animals and humans. Ironically, it is grown near shrines in Asian countries, giving it the sacred title.
9. Autumn Joy Sedum
Botanical Name: Hylotelephium spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’
The name alone tells which season this plant looks best in! Autumn Joy sedum is a succulent that can grow in unfavorable conditions yet does not lack in the visual appeal department! This plant produces buds in summer which open into gorgeous red flowers during fall.
Even in the winter, the browned seed heads keep the plant attractive. This plant is drought- and salt-tolerant, resistant to rabbit browsing, and requires little attention. Hence, this plant is a novice gardener’s dream!
Have a look at these winter-blooming succulents that will keep your garden thriving even in the cold!
Now that your garden won’t lose its charm in autumn, let us know in the comments section which plant caught your eye the most and why!
