Autumn Glory

A Symphony of Colour

In the cool embrace of autumn, Araluen Botanic Park transforms into a breathtaking display of rich red, gold, orange, and yellow hues. From April onwards, deciduous trees across the Park begin to shed their summer greens, replacing them with a kaleidoscope of autumn tones that sweep across the valley.

Thanks to Araluen’s cooler climate and sheltered location, the changing foliage here is especially vibrant. Our diverse collection of deciduous trees and shrubs begins this transformation in response to shorter days in March and April, conserving nutrients by withdrawing them from their leaves. This natural process, known as abscission, prepares the plants for new growth in spring — when many will bloom before their fresh leaves emerge.

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Why Leaves Change Colour

As nutrients are drawn back into the roots and woody structures, some pigments — such as chlorophyll — fade away. But others remain behind, creating vivid autumn colours. The result? Leaves that blaze in reds, purples, golds, and oranges before finally falling.

However, not all trees put on the same show. Some species simply turn brown, while others offer brilliant bursts of colour. Among the most striking are the liquidambers, especially around the Concourse Lawns later in the season. These towering trees, some dating back to the 1930s, are a legacy of Araluen’s early days — including one near the Margaret Simons Pergola planted in 1938.

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When Do the Trees Change?

The timing of autumn colour depends largely on genetics. Some trees start their transformation in early April, while others hold onto their green foliage well into May or even June.

April Highlights: Early-season stunners include the golden Ash (Fraxinus) and vibrant red Canadian Maples (Acer rubrum, Acer x freemanii), seen from the Croydon Road entry through to the heart of the Park. Look for golden Tulip Trees (Liriodendron), red Snowy Mespillus (Amelanchier), and large maples lighting up the Entry Carpark.

May Delights: As the season progresses, enjoy the fiery tones of the Chinese Pistachio (Pistachio chinensis), persimmons (Diospyros kaki), crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia), and ornamental plums, cherries (Prunus), and pears (Pyrus). By mid-May, Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) are on full display—especially near the Margaret Simons Pergola, the lower levels of Brisbane Hill, around the Log Cabin, and below Forest View.

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How Weather Impacts the Display

Weather plays a key role in the quality of Araluen’s autumn display. Ideal conditions — dry, calm days with cold nights — help produce the most vivid and long-lasting colours. The Park’s cool morning temperatures often trigger particularly striking foliage.

However, wet and windy spells can cause leaves to fall prematurely, shortening the display. As a result, autumn at Araluen can look different each year — sometimes lasting longer, sometimes bursting brighter — but always offering a beautiful glimpse of nature’s seasonal rhythm.

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News

22 August 2025

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Stories From The Gardens

Discover what’s blooming, get behind-the-scenes insights, and stay up to date with all the latest from Araluen Botanic Park.

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What’s On at Araluen

From live concerts to seasonal festivals, there’s always something special happening at Araluen. Explore upcoming events and plan your next visit to experience the park in full bloom.

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