Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica): Summer Blooms, Fall Color & Exfoliating Bark

Crape myrtles range from dwarf shrubs to small trees, with habits from spreading to upright. All have 1–2 in. dark green leaves that turn orange-red in fall, and dense, crinkled, crepe-papery flower clusters in white, pink, red, or purple. Trained to a single trunk, they form a vase-shaped tree; multi-trunked specimens develop a broader canopy. Smooth gray bark exfoliates to reveal pinkish inner bark.

Best In Hot Summers

Mildew can be problematic; choose resistant strains if prevalent in your area.

• Zones: 7–10, 12–14, 18–21, 25–31, warmer parts of 32
• Light: Full sun
• Water: Moderate
• Growth: Moderate