Monitoring Autumn Leaf Color Changes and Their Landscape Significance in Three Urban Tree Species in Antakya (Hatay), Türkiye

The aesthetic and functional quality of urban landscapes is strongly influenced by the seasonal color dynamics of vegetation. This research was conducted between September 2013 and December 2014 to investigate the autumn color changes of three tree species (Robinia pseudoacacia, Sophora japonica ‘Pendula’, and Melia azedarach), widely used in urban landscaping in Hatay (Antakya-Türkiye). Three specimens of each species, with similar age and maintenance conditions, were selected. Twenty-four leaf samples were collected weekly from four cardinal directions of each tree, and leaf color parameters were measured using a CR-300 (Minolta) colorimeter according to Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) standards. The colorimetric parameters measured included brightness (L*), green-red axis (a*), yellow-blue axis (b*), chroma (C*), and hue angle (h°). Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Pearson correlation tests. Results showed significant seasonal variations in color parameters, with clear species-specific patterns. Leaf color changes were strongly correlated with climatic variables, particularly temperature. These findings highlight the importance of integrating phenological and colorimetric data into planting design to enhance urban aesthetics and psychological well-being. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on plant color dynamics in Mediterranean urban landscapes and their implications for landscape design.