Autumn is evident even though rainfall is still low here and temperatures mild. Many of the deciduous trees in the garden have been dropping their leaves for weeks now due to the drought.
If we get some chilly nights some the trees might colour up more but many have leaves that look crispy dry with only some discolouration.
The Smoke Bush (Cotinus Coggygria) is showing its usual beauty, apparently unaffected by the lack of rain.
And the Cotoneaster is covered in rich red berries.
Last week the blackbirds were feasting on these but after some millimetres of rain the birds are back hunting worms instead.
ordinarygoodness 
How lovely to see your photos of autumn colours. I have been out and about doing errands and noticed the richness of autumn colours and the piles of leaves on the ground; but there was no time to stop for photos. There should always be time to stop, I know 😦 but sometimes…….
Thanks. I haven’t seen many piles of dry leaves yet. More scattering only here yet. Your autumn colours are always gorgeous. I understand about the juggle over stopping to take photos:-)
I always think, each year, that the autumn colours are more gorgeous than the previous autumn; the same happens with spring. It’s the mind playing tricks of course but it’s great that it can make me believe that each season is more beautiful than the previous one 🙂
A richer perception of things is no bad thing. Each season offers so much beauty in its own way.
What lovely colours, Lynley. I especially like those large red leaves.
Thanks Juliet. The Smoke Bush leaves are a real mixture. The darkest red ones are very striking.
Lovely shots – and we’ve had a bit of rain today
Thanks. Bits of rain keep falling here with more promised for the afternoon. A high of 22 is predicted so that is more summer than autumn really:-)
Lovely autumn colours! I’ve also been taking photos today while out for a walk at lunchtime (post to come later …) – just love the variety of autumn shades and crunching through the leaves 🙂 🙂 Thank you also for identifying the cotoneaster for me, I have this in the garden but had no idea what it was called! We’ve had a bit of rain lately and the forecast is for more of the same through until the end of the week – not complaining, though, we definitely needed it!
The Smoke Bush never fails in its showy features through all the seasons. Enjoy those crunching leaves!
Beautiful! It’s nice to be reminded that autumn is happening on the other side of the world.
It is slow here Jo but it is definitely happening. I hope the sun is beaming down on your neck of the woods.
Sadly not yet, Lyn, but we’re ever hopeful!
Hopefully the sun is en route to you because we have had rain on and off all day here. I think the drought is over…..yah!
Yes the autumn colours are beautiful. Truly a painter’s palette.
That tree is exactly a painter’s palette. You are right Diana….thanks!