Choosing a Dwarf Crape Myrtle for Zone 6b: Hardiness and Pruning

A Kansas gardener (zone 6b) wants crape myrtle shrubs, considering ‘Hopi’ and ‘Victor Dwarf’. The expert cautions that crape myrtles are marginal in 6b; only plant in a sheltered spot. Label heights are often underestimated. Instead of rejuvenation pruning (which looks harsh), use annual reduction pruning—cut shoots back to larger branch unions—to maintain size naturally. Success in 6b would be inspiring.