Abstract: The physiological character of different leaves color in autumn was studied. Three kinds of leaves colors were selected to measure the pigment content, enzyme activity and inclusion in the leaves. The results showed that it had lower chlorophyll content，higher PAL and POD activities and larger ratio of anthocyanin to chlorophyll in red leaves. The green leaves have higher chlorophyll content，lower PAL and POD activity and lower ratio of anthocyanin to chlorophyll. Through the determination of soluble contents, the content of sugar and protein was relatively high in red leaves. The correlation coefficient between the ratio of anthocyanins to chlorophyll and soluble contents were all reach absolutely significance levels. These indicated that the accumulation of material contents was favorable in the synthesis of anthocyanin.

Key words: Cotinus coggygria &lsquo, Royal Purple&rsquo, leaf, anthocyanin, PAL, soluble sugar