Crape Myrtle Tree

Plant Type: tree
Plant Height: 15-25 feet
Spread: 6-15 feet
Flower Color: pink, red, purple, or white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

The Crape Myrtle Tree, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia indica, is a highly admired deciduous tree celebrated for its spectacular blooms, attractive peeling bark, and vibrant fall foliage. Originating from East Asia, this tree has become a beloved feature in warm temperate and subtropical landscapes, offering year-round interest and beauty.

Crape Myrtle Trees typically reach heights of 15 to 25 feet, with some varieties growing taller, making them suitable for a variety of landscape settings as specimen trees, in borders, or as street trees. They boast dense clusters of crinkly, crepe paper-like flowers in a rainbow of colors, from soft whites to deep reds, blooming from late spring through the summer and sometimes into fall.

The foliage of the Crape Myrtle Tree is equally attractive, with leaves that are bright green in spring and summer, transitioning to stunning shades of yellow, orange, or red before dropping in autumn. The exfoliating bark adds winter interest, revealing smooth, mottled layers of gray, brown, and pink underneath.

Adapted to full sun, Crape Myrtles prefer well-draining soil and are drought-tolerant once established, though they benefit from regular watering during their first few years. Pruning in late winter to early spring can help maintain the tree's shape, encourage airflow, and promote prolific flowering.

In landscaping, the Crape Myrtle Tree is valued for its moderate size, which makes it an excellent choice for residential gardens, urban areas, and public spaces. It can be used as a standalone feature or incorporated into larger landscape designs for its seasonal interest and ornamental value.

Overall, the Crape Myrtle Tree is a low-maintenance, versatile tree that adds long-lasting color, texture, and beauty to landscapes. Its adaptability to a range of conditions, combined with its spectacular flowers, attractive fall foliage, and peeling bark, make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscape designers alike.