'Peppermint Lace' Crape Myrtle: Striped Blooms for Summer Gardens

Lagerstroemia indica 'Peppermint Lace': A Striped Sensation

Among the hundreds of crape myrtle cultivars, 'Peppermint Lace' stands out for its uniquely patterned flowers—each petal boldly striped in pink and white, like peppermint candy. Introduced in 1970 by O. F. Spring, this patented cultivar (PP3169) brings a playful, eye-catching display to summer gardens in zones 7–9.

Key Characteristics

• Flower: Large panicles (6–12 in.) of crinkled, crepe-paper petals. **Each petal striped longitudinally: medium pink and white.** No two flowers identical.
• Bloom period: Early summer to frost (longest in hot climates).
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green, 2–4 in.; fall color: orange-red.
• Bark: Exfoliating, mottled gray-tan-cinnamon (winter interest).
• Habit: Deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree; 15–20 ft tall, 10–15 ft wide; vase-shaped.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 7–9 (root hardy to zone 6 with protection).

Breeding and History

• Hybridizer: O. F. Spring (Oklahoma).
• Introduced: 1970.
• Plant Patent: PP3,169 (expired).
• Class: *Lagerstroemia indica* (common crape myrtle) cultivar.

Growing Requirements

• Light: **Full sun (6+ hours) essential** for bloom and disease resistance.
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral; adaptable to clay if drained.
• Water: Regular during establishment; drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overhead watering.
• Fertilizer: Light, balanced feed in spring; excess nitrogen → foliage over flowers.
• Pruning: Late winter: remove dead/crossing branches, suckers, seed heads. **Do not "crape murder" (topping).**

Landscape Uses

• Specimen tree/shrub—flowers are a conversation piece.
• Flowering hedge or screen (plant 8–10 ft apart).
• Street tree (where utilities allow).
• Container (large) for patio.

Disease Resistance

• Powdery mildew: Moderate resistance (better than older *indica* cultivars, less than modern hybrids like 'Natchez').
• Cercospora leaf spot: Moderate susceptibility.
• Good air circulation and full sun minimize issues.

Design Tips

• Backlight flowers with evening sun for glowing stripes.
• Pair with solid-color companions: white *Echinacea*, pink *Salvia*, blue *Agapanthus*.
• Underplant with spring bulbs (daffodils, iris) for early season interest.