Crape Myrtle
Also known as
Crepe Myrtle, Crapemyrtle, Common Crape Myrtle, Indian Crape Myrtle
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Lagerstroemia indica is a deciduous shrub to small tree prized for its flamboyant, long-lasting summer bloom and handsome, exfoliating bark. Native to China and Korea, it bears large panicles of crinkled, tissue-like flowers in shades of pink, red, lavender, and white, followed by woody seed capsules. Smooth bark peels to reveal mottled patches in tan, cinnamon, and gray, adding winter interest. Foliage emerges bronze to green, then develops attractive yellow to orange-red fall color. It thrives in heat and full sun, tolerating drought and urban conditions once established. Modern cultivars vary widely in size—from compact patio forms to small trees—and many offer improved resistance to powdery mildew. Crape myrtle performs best in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and responds well to thoughtful structural pruning in late winter. In colder climates, it may die back to the ground and re-sprout, still blooming on new wood. Its versatility, extended bloom period, and multi-season appeal make it a staple of warm-temperate landscapes.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Crape Myrtle
Water
During the first 1–2 growing seasons, water weekly to supply about 1 inch (25 mm) of moisture, keeping soil evenly moist but never soggy. Apply water slowly at the root zone; deep, infrequent soakings are better than frequent shallow sips. Once established, crape myrtle is moderately drought tolerant—water only during extended dry spells. Container-grown plants dry faster: water when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) are dry, ensuring free drainage. Mulch to reduce evaporation and avoid overhead watering to limit mildew.
Light
Provide full sun for best flowering—at least 6 hours daily, ideally 8+ hours. Light shade reduces bloom density and increases susceptibility to powdery mildew. Site plants with open exposure and good air movement, away from dense shade or narrow courtyards that trap humidity. In containers, rotate periodically to maintain even canopy development. Indoor culture is not recommended; if overwintered indoors, keep in a cool, bright, dormant state and return to full sun after frost danger passes.
Nutrients
Crape myrtle is a light to moderate feeder. In early spring, apply a slow‑release, balanced or slightly phosphorus‑leaning fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10 or 5‑10‑5) at label rates, focusing on the dripline. Avoid high nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth at the expense of blooms. In poor soils, a light midsummer reapplication is acceptable if plants are underperforming. Cease fertilizing 8–10 weeks before expected frost to prevent tender late growth. Maintain a 5–7 cm organic mulch to conserve moisture and improve soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 7–9 (some cultivars to Zone 6 with dieback). It thrives in summer heat, with best flowering in sustained warm conditions. Mature wood tolerates brief dips to about 5–10°F (-15 to -12°C), though young shoots are frost sensitive. In colder zones, treat as a dieback shrub or grow in containers that can be overwintered frost-free. Mulch roots in late fall and avoid late-season fertilization to reduce cold damage. Heat and reflected sun are well tolerated.
