Great Design Plant: Crape Myrtle — Year-Round Southern Beauty

Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a Southern staple with four-season appeal: sculptural multi-stemmed form, long-lasting summer-to-fall flowers, and stunning exfoliating bark. Atlanta planted 1,000 for the 1996 Olympics — a testament to its landscape value.

Botanical name: Lagerstroemia indica
Common names: Common crape myrtle, crepe myrtle
USDA zones: 7–9 (in colder areas, choose warm, protected microclimate)
Water: Moist, well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established
Light: Full sun
Mature size: 15–40 ft tall, 6–15 ft wide
Tolerances: Dry soils, clay
Seasonal interest: Summer/fall flowers, exfoliating bark, winter silhouette
When to plant: After last frost or ≥4 weeks before first frost

Distinguishing Traits

Flowers: 8-inch panicles in pink, purple, red, white — bloom most of summer into fall. Deadheading promotes rebloom. Fruit: brownish-black berries. Form: multi-stemmed, vase-shaped, dense branching — beautiful even bare in winter. Bark: peels in rolling sheets of medium and light brown, adding unique texture.

Landscape Uses

• Striking allée: two rows create a dramatic path or entry.
• Specimen tree: allow room for spread near structures. Excellent near patios — sculpture, color, dappled shade.

Planting Notes

Many varieties exist (height, shape, hardiness, flower color). Check local nursery for availability and mature size. Planting steps:

1. Dig hole 3× root ball width, as deep as root ball height.
2. Loosen root ball, shake out circling roots.
3. Place tree, backfill firmly with native soil.
4. Tamp soil, water thoroughly. Water every other day for first month.

Pruning Note

“Crape murder” — severe topping to a few feet — destroys the natural form. The author dislikes this practice but acknowledges personal preference. Largest crape myrtle seen: at Atlanta Botanical Garden, towering over a 6'4" person.