Common Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica (Lythraceae) is a deciduous small tree or large shrub native to China, Japan, and Korea. It grows at a moderate rate to about 25 feet tall and 16 feet wide, often developing multiple trunks with smooth, exfoliating bark that reveals patches of gray, tan, and cinnamon. Flowers appear from July through September in large terminal panicles, available in white, pink, purple, and deep red depending on cultivar.

Crape myrtle requires full sun and well-drained soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5) for best flowering. Powdery mildew is a serious concern on susceptible selections. Hybrids bred at the U.S. National Arboretum (crosses with L. fauriei) offer strong mildew resistance: 'Natchez' (white, 25 feet), 'Muskogee' (lavender-pink, 20 feet), 'Tuscarora' (coral-pink), and 'Zuni' (lavender, 15 feet) are among the most reliable. The dwarf 'Petite Plum' reaches only 5 feet. Designated the Texas state shrub in 1997. Hardy in Zones 7a to 8b.