Central Texas isn’t known for its autumn colors, but they are out there. Against the green background of the live oaks and the ashe junipers, the few colorful plants can really stand out.

Driving along a back road today, I saw the brilliant red display of Flame Leaf Sumac (Rhus lanceolata). You frequently see it growing along fences and road sides. It quickly colonizes disturbed areas and birds eat the berries and then sit on fences and power lines and distribute them.

This plant was one of several and they were all quite tall – about 15 feet. They are round and bushy so they’re really quite spectacular.

Flame Leaf Sumac

I also saw a splash of color on this neat ridge. I think the trees are cedar elms, post oaks, and red oaks, but can’t be sure since I was so far away. It doesn’t matter though, because the colors can be appreciated without knowing the exact species.

Autumn Ridge

Here’s an interesting oak tree. I think it’s a post oak, but I’m not sure. It has a wind-swept look, although I know that’s not how it got its shape. My guess is that the tree suffered damage along its main vertical trunk and what’s left is the first few horizontal branches on one side.