Native plants for fall color

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For vibrant fall colors in Charlotte, North Carolina, several native plants are highly recommended. These plants not only provide stunning autumn hues but also support local wildlife and are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions.

Trees

  1. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
    • Fall Color: Fiery reds and oranges.
    • Benefits: Provides good shade, supports pollinators with early season blooms, and thrives in moist areas.
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  1. Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica)
    • Fall Color: Bright reds and purples.
    • Benefits: Produces fruits for wildlife, thrives in both wet and dry areas, and is adaptable to various conditions.
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  1. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
    • Fall Color: Red foliage.
    • Benefits: Year-round wildlife magnet, attracts bees and butterflies in spring, and provides red fruits for migrating birds and squirrels in fall.
  2. Sweet Bay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)
    • Fall Color: Subtle yellows and reds.
    • Benefits: Produces beautiful blooms, attracts pollinators, and provides red seeds for wildlife.
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Shrubs

  1. American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
    • Fall Color: Vibrant purple berries.
    • Benefits: Attracts birds and other wildlife, thrives in well-drained soil, and adds a pop of color to the garden.
  2. Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)
    • Fall Color: Yellow foliage.
    • Benefits: Fragrant summer blooms, attracts pollinators, and thrives in moist, shaded areas.
  3. Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica)
    • Fall Color: Bright red foliage.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, thrives in moist soil, and provides a stunning display of fall color.

Perennials and Wildflowers

  1. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
    • Fall Color: Bright purple flowers.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, thrives in full sun to partial shade, and adds late-season color to the garden.
  2. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
    • Fall Color: Bright orange flowers.
    • Benefits: Attracts butterflies and other pollinators, thrives in well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant.
  3. Swamp Sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius)
    • Fall Color: Bright yellow flowers.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, thrives in moist soil, and adds a burst of color to the garden in the fall.
By incorporating these native plants into your garden, you can enjoy a vibrant display of fall colors while supporting local wildlife and maintaining a sustainable landscape in Charlotte, North Carolina.