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Crepe myrtle
Also known as: Indian crape myrtle
Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a highly ornamental small tropical tree or shrub, often multi-stemmed. It is native to India, Southeastern Asia, and Japan, and features a characteristic vase-shaped crown and beautifully-ruffled pink blooms that can last from early summer to autumn. It is also a popular nesting shrub for small birds.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
Shrub
Plant Type
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
6 m to 7 m
Plant Height
1.8 m to 8 m
Spread
Green, Yellow, Orange, Bronze
Leaf Color
3 cm to 4 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Copper
Fruit Color
White, Pink, Red, Purple, Lavender, Burgundy
Flower Color
Gray, Silver, Brown, Green, White, Purple, Pink
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
10 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Crepe myrtle

Distribution of Crepe myrtle

Distribution Map
Crepe myrtle is native to China and mainland Southeast Asia, growing naturally in grassy areas and on forest edges. It has been introduced to Africa, the Americas, and other regions of Asia as an ornamental plant. Crepe myrtle has also been listed as invasive on several Caribbean islands and in a few other tropical/subtropical countries.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Open grassy places, cliffs, forest edges
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value
Feeds a number of different bird species in the summer and winter, while also providing shelter and nesting areas.
Economic Value
Crepe myrtle wood is hard and rot-resistant. It can be used for agricultural tools, furniture and building materials.
Garden Use
Crepe myrtle is a deciduous shrub and tree that is commonly found in gardens within warmer climates. It is prized for its attractive winter bark, colorful fall foliage, and showy summer blooms. Its dense root system makes it suitable for erosion control. It is also used for boundaries. Crepe myrtle is good for Pollinator gardens. Plant with Peruvian Lily for color contrast.
Symbolism
Good luck, eloquence, obsessed love, femininity, household peace, marriage
Interesting Facts
The crepe myrtle, native to China, is a long-lived tree with strong adaptability. Its history of cultivation dates back thousands of years ago. It was planted in the Chang'an court in the Tang Dynasty, and has been introduced to all parts of the world in recent centuries. Westerners found the tree in India, so the French called it Indian Lilac. Its Latin name is from the Swedish businessman Magnus von Lagerstrm, who provided samples of the plant to Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist, who then created the plant's unique scientific name.
Name Story
Indian crape myrtle||Crape myrtle: The crepe myrtle has existed in plant history for more than a thousand years. Before it blossoms, people often think that its bright green leaves resemble another plant called Myrtle, surprised to see beautiful lush flowers later appearing. What makes it special is that, in full bloom, its flower petals are slightly wrinkly and exhibit a rich texture, like a crape. Since the beauty of the plant was discovered by Westerners in India, the plant was then referred to as the Indian crepe myrtle, or crepe myrtle for short.
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Quickly Identify Crepe myrtle

1
Flowers have 6 clawed, cristate petals resembling crepe paper.
2
Fruit is a 6-valved dehiscent capsule, brown, with disc-shaped seeds.
3
Leaves turn dark green, oblong to obovate, with red tinges.
4
Stems are slender, almost squarish, with prominent wings along length.
5
Trunk bark exfoliates in thin sheets, revealing colors from brown to gray.
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Care Guide for Crepe myrtle

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
10 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Originating from warm Asian climates, crepe myrtle thrives in heat and tolerates drought. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. As an ornamental plant, it benefits from rainwater during the growing season, supporting its moderate moisture needs.
Fertilize: Fertilizing crepe myrtle promotes healthy growth and blooms. Use balanced, slow-release fertilizers in spring and early summer, following label instructions. Adjust frequency during growth phases, watering before and after to prevent root burn and improve nutrient absorption.
Pruning: Pruning crepe myrtle in early spring enhances blooms and structural integrity. Techniques include removing dead wood, thinning crowded branches, and promoting air circulation. Use sharp tools to prevent disease and avoid excessive cutting to reduce stress. These practices ensure lush growth and vibrant displays each season.
Propagation: Crepe myrtle features bright summer blooms and exfoliating bark, enhancing garden aesthetics year-round. Propagation via semi-ripe cuttings with rooting hormone in moist, well-draining medium is effective. Maintain high humidity through regular misting, and acclimate plants gradually to outdoor conditions prior to final transplantation.
Repotting: Repot crepe myrtle every two years in early spring to support its growth. Use a large container for robust roots and blooms. Post-repotting, provide full sun and well-draining soil. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage a healthy root system, ensuring crepe myrtle thrives with proper care.
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