Here at Arundel Arboretum, we continue to be transformed into a spectacle of vibrant autumn colours. However, some people do get concerned that the stunning leaves start to show signs of ill health with leaf blotches and sometimes mildew attack. This is absolutely nothing to worry about! As we move further into autumn and winter, trees naturally reduce their defences and can, therefore, be more prone to a fungal attack. Just remember that deciduous trees’ leaves naturally deteriorate so all is well! It is the bacterial breakdown in the leaves that create compost.
If you are looking to plant a deciduous tree in your garden, why not pop along to see what we have? You will be able to see your chosen tree in all its autumnal glory! There is a large variety of deciduous autumn trees to choose from. Here is a small selection to get you started:-
Acer griseum / Paperbark Maple
This is one of our absolute favourites! Acer griseum is a simply stunning, small, slow growing deciduous tree that produces paper-thin curls of cinnamon bark on the trunk and main branches. These will become translucent in the light. The leaves turn a stunning red-orange in the autumn. Acer griseum has an eventual height of 8-12m and spread of 4-8m. Acer griseum prefers a sheltered position and moist, well-drained soil.
Sorbus commixta / Japanese Rowan
Sorbus commixta is a broadly conical tree with divided dark green leaves, which turn yellow to red or purple in the autumn. It has clusters of white flowers in the late spring. These are followed by orange-red to red berries. It should be planted in a moist, well-drained soil. It has an eventual height of 8-12m and a spread of 4-8m. Sorbus commixta can be planted in full sun or partial shade, in a sheltered or exposed position.
Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’
Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’ is a large deciduous tree originating from North America. It’s noted for its vibrant, stunning autumn colour. The dark green foliage in spring and summer is followed by shades of scarlet red, orange and yellow leaves in the autumn. This Acer has an eventual height of 12m+ and a spread of 8m+. Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’ will grow on most soils and will prefer a sunny or partial shade position. Plant in a moist, well-drained soil.
Cercis canadensis ‘Ruby Falls’
Cercis canadensis ‘Ruby Falls’ is a compact, deciduous weeping tree. Pink flowers appear in the spring. These are followed by heart-shaped dark red leaves, which turn purple in the summer. Cercis canadensis ‘Ruby Falls’ has stunning autumn colours and has an eventual height and spread of up to 3m. A slow growing tree that will be happy in full sun or dappled shade. Plant in a well-drained soil.
Sorbus ‘Joseph Rock’ is a small, deciduous tree with superb autumn colour, when the leaves turn red, orange and purple. White flowers appear in spring, which is followed by creamy-yellow berries that turn amber-yellow. Sorbus ‘Joseph Rock’ can be planted in full sun or partial shade, in a sheltered or exposed position. With an eventual height of 8-12m and a spread of 4-8m, it should be planted in a moist, well-drained soil.
We have a good selection of autumn trees, which will enhance your garden. We look forward to seeing you, where our helpful staff will be able to assist in the right autumn trees for you.