Crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia)

Crape myrtles

The crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia) are a group of flowering evergreen shrubs and trees, most of which are tropical or sub-tropical. Crape myrtles respond well to trimming, bear large and beautiful clusters of flowers, and are today used extensively in landscaping. Some crape myrtles, such as the Guava Crape Myrtle (L. calyculata) can reach large-tree sizes and are occasionally harvested for their timber, although it is of fairly low value.

Scientific classification

Genus

Crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia)

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Perennial

Lifespan

1.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Crape myrtles

Species

Crepe myrtle Pride of India Crape myrtles 'Early Bird White'Crepe myrtle 'Pink Velour'Crepe myrtle 'Comanche'Crape myrtles 'Delta Jazz'Crepe myrtle 'Coral Magic'Lendia Taiwan Crepe Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica f. alba Crepe myrtle 'Lipan'Crape myrtles 'Delta Moonlight'Crepe myrtle 'Purple Magic'Crepe myrtle 'Dynamite'Crepe myrtle 'Berry Dazzle'Crepe myrtle 'Ebony Flame'Crape myrtles 'Cherry Dazzle'Crepe myrtle 'Red Rocket'

Quickly Identify Crape myrtles

Multi-stemmed growth forming a vase-like shape.

Exfoliating bark with mottled gray, tan, and brown colors.

Showy flowers cluster at branch tips, pink to purple, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm).

Simple, oval to oblong leaves, lustrous green, 2-8 inches (5-20 cm) long.

Autumn foliage transitions to yellow, orange, or red hues.

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Care Guide for Crape myrtles

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Crape myrtles prefers warm, humid conditions and well-drained soil. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Outdoor growth benefits from increased watering during the active season for enhanced flowering.

Propagation: Propagation of crape myrtles can be achieved via seed sowing or cuttings (4-6 inches). Successful methods require warmth, humidity, and well-draining soil. Using rooting hormone enhances cutting success. Challenges include seed viability and precise techniques. Maintain moisture and warmth for rooting establishment.

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Learn More About Crape myrtles

How to Grow and Care

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