Why Do Leaves Turn Red in Autumn?

Autumn’s yearly arrival comes laden with many indicators: a proliferation of turtlenecks, Charlie Brown specials, and Starbucks drinks that include the word “spice.” But perhaps most traditional are the widespread hues associated with the season — the burnt oranges, cider browns, canary yellows, and mulberry purples that color temperate regions’ commercials, kitchen tables, front porches, and soon enough, leaves.