Where the Reds Come From

Reds and purples work differently.

These colors come from pigments called anthocyanins. Unlike the yellows, most of them aren't hiding in the leaf all summer.

Many trees, such as some maples, make them in the fall, using sugars that are trapped in the leaves.

Scientists think these red pigments may help protect leaves while the tree recovers nutrients, though the exact reasons are still being studied.

Continue reading: Chapter 4 of 5 →