The Correct Spelling: Crapemyrtle (One Word)

Plant names can be confusing, but for the iconic Southern flowering tree, the authoritative single-word spelling is "crapemyrtle."

Why One Word?

Horticultural references like Dr. Michael Dirr's "Manual of Woody Landscape Plants" and Dr. Allan Armitage's texts use "crapemyrtle" as the standard common name. The genus is Lagerstroemia, and the one-word form distinguishes it from true myrtles (Myrtus). While "crepe myrtle" and "crape myrtle" are widely used, the one-word version is preferred by professionals for consistency.

Whatever you call it, choose the right cultivar for your space to avoid the dreaded "crape murder" of severe topping.