Common Name: Crape Myrtle

Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia indica

Crape Myrtle  Multi-stemmedSmall Tree

Classification: Deciduous         USDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10

Size:

• 6" to 25' height

Growth Habit:

• Multi-stemmed shrub to small tree
• Moderate growth rate

Crape Myrtle Bark Exfoliating

Bark: 

• Exfoliating

Crape Myrtle Opposite Leaf Arrangement	Crape Myrtle Alternate and Opposite Leaf Arrangement	Crape Myrtle Ovate Leaf and Smooth Margin

Foliage:

• Deciduous
• Opposite and alternate leaf arrangement
• Ovate leaf shape
• Smooth leaf margin
• 2" long
• Dull dark green color
• Fall color varies

Crape Myrtle Inflorescence Panicles

Inflorescence:

• Large, showy panicles
• Petals of flowers look like crepe paper
• Single blossom 1/2" diameter
• White, pink, red, or purple
• Begins blooming in the summer (mid-July)
• Blooms heavily for about 3 months

Crape Myrtle Fruit Dry-dehiscent Capsules

Fruit:

• Round
• Tan
• Dry-dehiscent capsules

Crape Myrtle Pruned as a Small Tree	Crape Myrtle As a Shrub - Not Pruned

Use:

• Small tree
• Shrub

Problems: 

• Powdery mildew
• Sooty mold
• Aphids

Culture:

• Full sun required for lush growth and prolific blooming
• Easy to grow and transplant
• Drought tolerant

Propagation:

• Seed
• Cutting, root cutting

Notes: 

• Often seen as an abused tree due to improper pruning in the form of topping
  • Topping disrupts the natural elegance of the trunks
• Very showy summer flowering plant.