Iowa’s incessant rains have put a damper on the start of the fall foliage season, but with dry days ahead, time still remains to enjoy this colorful time of the year.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources notes that fall colors are starting to shine across the state as more trees begin to change. Golds and yellows are abundant on scenic drives as hickories, cottonwoods and maples reach their peak.
Related: Learn about one popular route for viewing fall colors
Here is more from the DNR’s report this week and see the color key to popular Iowa trees, below:
In north-central and northwest Iowa, we are starting to see the brilliant reds and oranges of the maples. Oaks are finally starting to turn with hints of red and bronze.
In southwest Iowa, now is the time to visit for beautiful fall colors as ash, sumac and dogwood are at their peak. Check out Travel Iowa’s picks for Best Fall Views of the Loess Hills.
Find more on the Weekly Fall Colors Report.
The Iowa DNR offers the following color guide to popular trees in the state:
Ash:
Green ash leaves turn yellow, but white ash has a purplish cast. The leaves fall after those of walnut trees, but earlier than those of oaks and maples.
Elms:
Elm leaves turn various shades of yellow with some turning brown before falling, others falling while still yellow.
Hickory:
Leaves turn yellow on hickory trees, then brown before falling.
Maple (Soft):
The leaves of soft (silver) maples turn yellow but do not turn brown before falling.
Maple (Hard):
Brilliant flame red hues are the signature of hard maple leaves. The red pigmentation of some leaves breaks down before falling.
Bur Oak:
Buff to yellow colors predominate in bur oaks. The leaves remain on the tree and turn brown before falling.
Oak (Red):
The red oaks have brilliant red leaves in fall though the color is probably not as intense as that of some hard maples.
Oak (White):
White oaks have a more subdued purple fall leaf color. The leaves then turn brown and often stay on the tree until new leaves begin to grow in the spring.
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