Lagerstroemia indica: Common Crape Myrtle with Colorful Summer Flowers

Lagerstroemia indica (crape myrtle) is an upright deciduous tree or large shrub. Dark green leaves emerge bronze. White, pink, red, or purple flowers appear summer to autumn. Peeling gray-and-brown bark is attractive.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Hybrids of L. indica and L. fauriei vary greatly in size, habit, hardiness, and resistance to powdery mildew.

Care

Thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Grow against a warm, sunny wall where marginally hardy or overwinter in greenhouse. Can be hard pruned if renovation required.

Propagation

Root softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Problems

Dieback, powdery mildew, aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and whiteflies.

Overview

• Height: 15–30 ft.
• Spread: 15–30 ft.
• Light: Full Sun Only
• Moisture: Dry to Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Interesting Bark, Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads
• Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
• Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, White
• Uses: Flowering Tree, Hedge, Screening, Specimen Plant/Focal Point
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Type: Trees