Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) lag-er-STRO-mee-ah IN-dih-kah Genus:  Lagerstroemia Crape myrtle is an upright deciduous tree or large shrub. Dark green leaves emerge bronze. White, pink, red, or purple flowers appear from summer to autumn. Peeling gray-and-brown bark is attractive.  Noteworthy Characteristics:  Hybrids of L. indica and L. fauriei vary greatly in size, habit, hardiness, and resistance to powdery mildew. Care:  Thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Grow against a warm, sunny wall where marginally hardy or overwinter in a greenhouse. Can be hard pruned if renovation is required. Propagation:  Root softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Problems:  Dieback, powdery mildew, aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and whiteflies.

Overview

Height 15 ft. to 30 ft. Spread 15 ft. to 30 ft. Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Interesting Bark, Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Pink, Purple, Red, White Uses Flowering Tree, Hedge, Screening, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Trees