Among the best of all summer flowering trees in the Mid Atlantic and southern U.S. as well as some parts of Europe, Asia, Australia and South America - the Crape Myrtle s are very easy to grow however thrive best on deep soil and a sheltered site. They are long-lived and tolerant of heat, drought and humidity making them very versitile once established. They are also moderately salt tolerate making them suitable trees for parking lot islands and roadsides as well as the seashore. Crape Myrtles however do need full sun. They are often very fast growing and may reach 3 feet in the first season from 4 inch rooted cuttings planted in May. The flowers vary greatly in color depending on variety and the foliage in summer is generally glossy green and oval and up to 3.5 inches long. After the long bloom season is over there is usually a second show of color as the leaves turn in the fall at around the same time the seeds mature. On young trees it is best to remove the flower clusters after they are done blooming so that they do not way down the branches and that the energy goes into new growth the following year rather than seed production. Sometimes dead heading spent blooms will extend the blooming season later into the fall. Normal bloom time for the Crapes is from July to September. Powdery mildew was a fungus that would ruin the foliage on many of the older varieties by late in the summer; however most of the new hybrids are resistant. Many of these new hybrids were produced by the U.S. National Arboretum and are the combination of the colorful blooming traditional Lagerstroemia indica ( a native of warmer parts of China ) with the more cold tolorant, attractive barked Lagerstroemia faurei ( the Japanese Crape Myrtle ). Almost all these varieties are very trouble free and keep very healthy foliage long into the fall.
For all Lagerstroemia - pruning is very important. Since the tree forms are also often grown for their bark - Crapes are often sold as multi-stem however too many stems is bad as it will hinder the trees natural form and will end up looking like a big clump of sticks or just a huge overgrown shrub. Crape Myrtles are best trained to 1 to 3 main trunks ( or 5 in some not so huge varieties ) and trained to a sturdy framework of branches and limbed up as they grow in size so eventually you have a tree you can walk under. Such trees are excellent for small gardens and patios. As for the Dwarf varieties - little pruning is generally needed.
Crape Myrtles are usually easy to transplant as potted stock as long as not overly root bound and also somewhat easy to plant as ball and burlap. They do need to be kept moist and their roots kept free from competing plants such as turf until well established.
Propagation: soft to semi-softwood cuttings taken before blooming begins, root easily under mist, 1000 to 3000 ppm in 2 to 6 weeks.
* photos taken on July 27 2010 in Laurel, MD
* photo taken on Oct 30 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park
* videos found on Youtube
Lagerstroemia 'Acoma' ( Acoma Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, small tree reaching a maximum size of 20 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 foot. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 4 feet.
The leaves are purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer. They turn to red or purple during autumn. The leaves are up to 3 x 1.5 inches in size.
The white flower clusters, up to 12 x 5 inches, persist over a season lasting up to 90 days from mid summer to early autumn.
The bark is light grayish-brown to almost white.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( wood hardy to - 12 F ). It will also grow as a perennial in zone 5 on protected sites if deeply mulched during winter. Mildew resistant.
* photo taken on July 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 in Washington, D.C.
* photos taken on May 7 2014 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on July 5 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 26 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 13 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 23 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Dec 28 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 21 2019 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 30 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Jan 9 2020 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on Aug 18 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 24 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Sep 4 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 8 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 7 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 24 2023 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Apalachee' ( Apalachee Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, upright, medium-sized tree, reaching a maximum size of 28 x 23 feet with a trunk diameter up to 2 feet across.
The foliage is bronzy-green at first, turning to glossy deep green. The leaves turn intense orange to red during autumn. The leaves are up to 3.5 x 2 inches in size.
The light-lavender flower clusters, up to 9.5 x 7 inches, are borne mid summer to early autumn.
The exfoliating bark is glowing cinnamon-orange.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Very resistant to mildew.
* photos taken on Aug 20 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Arapaho' ( Arapaho Crape Mytle )
A very fast growing, upright, vase-shaped, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 22 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 feet; 3 years - 15 feet; 15 years - 25 x 20 feet.
The foliage is vibrant red at first, soon turning to glossy deep green. The leaves turn deep red to purplish-red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 3 x 1.5 inches in size.
The intense deep red flower clusters, up to 7 x 4 inches, last all summer long.
The exfoliating bark is light tan color.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( root hardy to zone 6 ). Very disease resistant
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Oct 23 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, DC
* photos taken on Oct 24 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Bashams Party Pink ( Party Pink Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, rounded, medium-sized tree, reaching a maximum size of 50 x 40 ( averaging 35 x 35 ) feet. Some records include: 15 years - 20 x 15 feet ( average ).
The bright green foliage turns to orange and red during autumn. The leaves are up to 4 x 1.5 inches in size.
Its huge, lavender-pink flower clusters, up to 18 x 8 inches, persist up to 80 days beginning mid-summer.
Hardy zones 8 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Baton Rouge' ( Baton Rouge Crape Myrtle )
A slow to moderate growing growing shrub with spreading to weeping branches, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 6 feet but averaging closer to 4 x 5 feet.
The foliage is luxuriant deep green, turning to yellow, orange and red during autumn, often with all colors being present on the same plant.
The rosy-red flowers are borne on large inflorescences during summer. In very mild climates, it may bloom over an extremely long period from late spring to early fall.
The attractive exfoliating bark is reddish-brown.
Hardy zones 6b to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Bellini Grape'
Moderate growing, dense, compact and domed in habit, reaching up to 0.8 x 1.1 feet in the first season, 4 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly wider.
The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The deep lavender-purple flowers in clusters, up to 2.8 x 3.2 inches in size, appear mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( root hardy to 5 ), it has superior mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 21 2022 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Bellini Guava'
Moderate growing, dense, compact and domed in habit, reaching up to 0.8 x 1.1 feet in the first season, up to 4 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly wider.
The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The light pink flowers appear in clusters, up to 2.8 x 3.2 inches in size, mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( root hardy to 5 ), it has superior mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 28 2023 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Bellini Raspberry'
Moderate growing, dense, compact and domed in habit, reaching up to 0.8 x 1.1 feet in the first season, up to 4 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly wider..
The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The raspberry-red flowers appear in clusters, up to 2.8 x 3.2 inches in size, mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( root hardy to 5 ), it has superior mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 27 2021 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on June 17 2024 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Bellini Strawberry'
Moderate growing, dense, compact and domed in habit, reaching up to 1.2 x 1.4 feet in the first season, up to 4 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly wider..
The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The bright red flowers appear in clusters, up to 2.8 x 3.2 inches in size, mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( root hardy to 5 ), it has superior mildew resistance.
* photos taken on June 13 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Berry Dazzle'
Forms a compact shrub, reaching up to 3,1 x 2.9 feet in 9 years, eventually to 4 x 4 feet.
The foliage is deep red at first, turning to glossy deep green. The leaves turn to deep red during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.3 inches in size.
The intense fuchsia-pink flowers appear in clusters, up to 2.3 x 3.2 inches in size, all summer long.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on Aug 25 2019 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Biloxi' ( Biloxi Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, upright to arching tree, reaching a maximum size of 45 x 40 feet. Some records include - 12 years - 20 x 12 feet ( average ).
The foliage is purplish-red during spring, turning to glossy deep green during summer. The obovate leaves are up to 4 x 1.6 inches in size.
It bears deep pink, rounded flowers clusters, up to 12 x 8 inches, that persist up to 80 days.
The exfoliating gray and dark brown bark is very attractive.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on May 7 2014 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on May 7 2014 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photo taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Nov 19 2016 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Jan 9 2020 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Blush'
Also called Lagerstroemia 'Ebony Glow'.
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The pale pink flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance..
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Sep 20 2021 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Crimson Red'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The intense deep red flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance..
* photo taken on June 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on Aug 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Aug 14 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 26 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC
* photos taken on July 31 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Crystalline'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The abundant, pure white flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photos taken on July 14 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 28 2023 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Lavender Lace'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The lavender-pink flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photo taken on June 18 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 10 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 4 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Purely Purple'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The bright purple flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photo taken on June 16 2019 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on Aug 13 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 9 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 25 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Pure White'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA. The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size. The pure white flowers are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photo taken on Aug 3 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Radiant Red'
Also called Lagerstroemia 'Ebony Embers'. A moderate to fast ( up to 3.7 feet per year ) growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The neon-red flowers are borne mid-summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as a cut-back shrub ). It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 7 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 24 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 25 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 7 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2024 in Timonium, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Red Hot'
Also called Lagerstroemia 'Ebony Embers'. A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 12 x 12 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The hot-red flowers are borne mid-summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as a cut-back shrub ). It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photo taken on Oct 15 2019 in Glenburnie, MD
* photos taken on July 14 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 21 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 30 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 8 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 24 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 11 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 22 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 27 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 1 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC
* photo taken on July 7 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Black Diamond Shell Pink'
A moderate growing, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching up to 13 x 13 feet, that was release by the USDA.
The foliage is intense very deep purple to black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.2 inches in size.
The coral-pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 5.5 x 3.5 inches in size, during mid-summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as a cut-back shrub ). It has excellent mildew resistance.
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 19 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 3 2019 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Burgundy Cotton'
A fast growing, upright, multi-stemmed tree, reaching a maximum size of 20 x 15 ( rarely over 15 ) feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 + feet. A cutting was reported to have reached 4.5 feet in just one year.
The foliage is deep red at first, turning reddish-green by late summer. They turn to orange-red during autumn.
The abundant, white flowers are borne in panicles up to 14 x 12 inches in size, from late summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
* photos taken on Aug 24 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 26 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 18 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 9 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 31 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 20 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 22 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Caddo' ( Caddo Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, spreading large shrub to small tree, reaching a maximum size of 16 x 20 feet. Some records include: 15 years - 8 x 10 feet.
The foliage is bright green during spring, turning to semi-glossy deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 2.3 x 1.5 inches in size.
The bright pink flower clusters, up to 10 x 9 inches, persist up to 80 days.
The attractive exfoliating bark is bright orangish-brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Lagerstroemia 'Carolina Beauty' ( Carolina Beauty Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, vase-shaped, small tree reaching a maximum size of 30 x 20 feet.
The foliage is bright green during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn.
The red blooms persist up to 65 days over the summer season.
The bark is grayish in color.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is prone to mildew.
Lagerstroemia 'Catawba' ( Catawba Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, dense, upright, rounded, large shrub to small tree, reaching a maximum size of 28 x 20 feet wide, however typically much less, especially on trees with many trunks. Some records include: 3 years - 10 x 8 feet; 15 years - 15 x 12 feet ( average )..
The leathery foliage is purplish at first, turning to glossy deep green during summer. The leaves turn intense orange-red during autumn.
The mid purplish-pink flower clusters, up to 7 x 6 inches, persist up to 70 days during summer.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 8 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 16 2014 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on July 17 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 17 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Oct 23 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Aug 5 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Cedar Red'
Also called 'Cedar Lane Red'. A fast growing, large shrub, reaching a maximum size of 18 x 15 feet. Some records include: 13 years - 13.6 feet.
The foliage is rich-red at first, turning to deep green during summer. They turn back to red or sometimes orange during autumn.
The flowers are a true red.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( north to zone 5a as a perennial )
* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Centennial Spirit' ( Centennial Spirit Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, upright growing tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 20 feet. Some records include: 15 years - 20 x 20 feet.
The thick glossy deep green foliage turns to purplish-red during autumn.
The large, upright, deep red flower clusters, up to 12 x 8 inches, persist up to 110 days from mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 7a to 9 and has survived as a perennial to as cold as - 28 F. Tolerant of cooler summers, thriving in western Oregon. It is mildew resistant.
* photos taken on Aug 10 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 7 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 31 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Center Stage Coral'
Vigorous and upright in habit, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet.
The foliage is glossy, purplish-black. the elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1.1 inches in size.
The intense coral-pink flowers appear mid-summer into mid-autum.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has exccellent mildew resistance.
* photo taken on May 29 2024 in Elkridge, MD
'Center Stage Pink'
Vigorous and upright in habit, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet.
The foliage is glossy, purplish-black. the elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1.1 inches in size.
The intense hot pink flowers appear mid-summer into mid-autum.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has exccellent mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 15 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 30 2024 in Columbia, MD
* patent photo
* photos taken on Sep 14 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Center Stage Red'
Vigorous and upright in habit, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet.
The foliage is glossy, purplish-black. the elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1.1 inches in size.
The intense coral-pink flowers appear mid-summer into mid-autum.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has exccellent mildew resistance.
* photos taken on May 29 2024 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on June 17 2024 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 30 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Cherry dazzle' ( Cherry Dazzle Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, spreading, small shrub, reaching up to 3.5 x 5 ( rarely over 2.7 x 3 ) feet in 3 years; 5 x 5 feet in 4 years, eventually 5.3 x 8 feet.
The leaves are bronze green turning dark green then orange-red-purple in the fall.
The flowers are scarlet-red.
Hardy zone 7 to 9. Very disease resistant.
* photos taken on Aug 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on August 24 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 7 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 16 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 16 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on on Aug 23 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 7 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 9 2017 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 11 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 22 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 13 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Cheyenne' ( Cheyenne Crape Myrtle )
A multi-trunked, upright, rounded shrub, reaching a maximum size of 12 x 10 feet. Some records include: 10 years - 8 x 8 feet; 15 years - 10 x 10 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep reddish-green to deep green, turning to deep red during autumn. The leaves are up to 2 x 1.5 inches in size.
The deep pinkish-red flower clusters are up to 6 x 4 inches in size.
The attractive exfoliating bark is light reddish-tan color.
Hardy zones 7b to 9. Very mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 20 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Chica Pink' ( Chica Pink Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, upright, dense, small shrub, reaching up to 2 x 2.4 feet in 3 years, 6 x 6 feet in 5 years, eventually slightly larger.
The foliage is purplish during early spring, turning to bright green during summer, then to red during autumn. The leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The abundant, bright pink flowers are borne through most of the summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Chica Red' ( Chica Red Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, upright, dense, small shrub, reaching up to 2 x 2.4 feet in 3 years, 6 x 6 feet in 5 years, eventually slightly larger.
The foliage is purplish during early spring, turning to bright green during summer, then to red during autumn. The leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The abundant, red flowers are borne through most of the summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Chickasaw' ( Chickasaw Crape Myrtle )
A vigorous but compact, mounding, small shrub, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3.5 feet. Some records include: 5 years - 2 x 3 feet.
The foliage is bright green during spring, turning glossy deep green in summer. The leaves then turn to red during autumn. The tiny leaves are up to 1.2 x 0.7 inches in size.
Its bears dense, small, light pink flower clusters, up to 1.2 x 1.5 inches, that persist up to 90 days over the summer season.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as perennial ). Cuttings typically root in 2 to 3 weeks under mist 1000 ppm IBA. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 25 2012 in Baltimore Co., MD
* photo taken on Aug 18 2011 in Howard Co., MD
Lagerstroemia 'Choctow' ( Choctow Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 30 feet. Some records include: 20 years- 22 x 23 feet ( average ). The Choctow Crape Myrtle is similar in habit to the American Elm.
The foliage is purplish-red at first, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to reddish-purple during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 3.5 x 1.5 inches in size.
The dark-pink flower clusters, up to 18 x 14 inches in size, persist up to 90 days from mid summer to early autumn.
The ornamental bark is orangish in color.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on July 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 5 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Aug 17 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 28 2017 in Odenton, MD
* photos taken on Nov 2 2017 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on July 30 2022 in Ellicott City, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Comanche' ( Comanche Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, broad-spreading, large shrub to small tree, reaching a maximum size of 23 x 23 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 4 feet; 15 years - 12 x 15 feet ( average ).
The foliage is purplish during spring turning to dark green during summer. The obovate leaves turn red during autumn.
The intense pink flower clusters, up to 10 x 9.5 inches, persist over 100 days from mid summer to early summer.
The bark is orangish in color and very attractive.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Conestoga' ( Conestoga Crape Myrtle )
A large open shrub, reaching a maximum size of 15 x 16 feet.
The semi-glossy leaves are deep green, turning to orangish-red during autumn.
The dense, lavender-pink flower clusters, up to 8 x 6.5 inches, are borne during mid to late summer.
The exfoliating bark is gray.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Coral Filli'
A vigorous, low, bushy, dense, dwarf Crape Myrtle, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 3 feet. In the midwest, Great Lakes and New England, it is generally reduced to a perennial, however is still along with the other Filli hybrids, the hardiest of all Crape Myrtles. It has been proven to be solidly hardy in places such as Nebraska, Chicago ILL, Michigan and Ontario, Canada.
In zone 5, the foliage appears around mid May and is red-green at first, turning to glossy deep green during summer then to bronze or purple-red during autumn.
The intense coral-pink flowers last from mid summer until autumn frosts.
The leaves, up to 1.5 x 0.7 inches, are very pest and disease resistant.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, tolerating at least as low as -30 F if mulched heavily on a well drained site during winter.
Lagerstroemia 'Coral Magic'
A moderate growing, dense, rounded, medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet in 4 years, to 10 x 10 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to deep green. The elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1 inches in size.
The coral-pink flowers appear in panicles up to 4 x 3 inches in size, during mid-summer, repeating during early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it has excellent resistance to powdery mildew and leafspot.
* photo taken on June 26 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 2 2020 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Crescent Moon'
A dwarf, dense, rounded shrub, reaching up to 4 x 4 feet.
The foliage is luxuriant mid-green.
The abundant white flowers are borne mid summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it is very disease resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Dallas Red' ( Dallas Red Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, broad, vase-shaped tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 20 feet.
The glossy deep green foliage; turns orange and yellow during autumn.
The large, intense, scarlet-red flower clusters, up to 16 inches in length, are borne during summer.
The attractive exfoliating bark is gray-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9, it is one of the most cold hardy Crape Myrtles. It is highly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Dazzle Me Pink'
A slow growing, compact, domed small shrub, reaching up to 2 x 3.3 feet in 3 years, 3.5 x 4 feet in 5 years; 4 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is bronze at first, turning to glossy deep green. The foliage turns to reddish-purple during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.7 x 0.8 inches in size.
The abundant mid-pink flowers on clusters, up to 5.1 x 4 inches in size, persist mid-summer into mid-autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. Very mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 16 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on on Aug 23 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 13 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 4 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 24 2023 in Columbia, MD
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Delta Fuchsia'
A fast growing, vase-shaped small tree, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet. Some records include: 2 years - 5 x 4 feet. It is a stunning feature plant, especially against a white stucco wall.
The uniquely cupped foliage is blackish-red, turning to orange-red during autumn. The foliage retains its color very well during hot summers. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The intense fuchsia-pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 8 x 7 inches in size, from mid-summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it is very disease resistant. Preferring hot summers, it can be planted in southern England and the Pacific Northwest if planted against a sunny south facing wall.
Lagerstroemia 'Delta Fusion'
A fast growing, vase-shaped small tree, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet. Some records include: 2 years - 5 x 4 feet. It is a stunning feature plant, especially against a white stucco wall.
The uniquely cupped foliage is blackish-red, turning to orange-red during autumn. The foliage retains its color very well during hot summers. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The deep pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 8 x 7 inches in size, from mid-summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it is very disease resistant. Preferring hot summers, it can be planted in southern England and the Pacific Northwest if planted against a sunny south facing wall.
Lagerstroemia 'Delta Jazz'
A fast growing, vase-shaped small tree, reaching up to 10 x 8 feet. Some records include: 2 years - 5 x 4 feet. It is a stunning feature plant, especially against a white stucco wall.
The uniquely cupped foliage is blackish-red, turning to orange-red during autumn. The foliage retains its color very well during hot summers. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The intense bright pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 8 x 7 inches in size, from mid-summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it is very disease resistant. Preferring hot summers, it can be planted in southern England and the Pacific Northwest if planted against a sunny south facing wall.
* photos taken on Sep 5 2012 in Burtonsville, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 19 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 9 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 8 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 25 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Diamond Dazzle'
A vigorous but dense, compact shrub, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The abundant, pure white flowers are borne mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, it has superior mildew resistance.
* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on Aug 13 2023 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Dynamite' ( Dynamite Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, upright tree. Some records include: 3 years - 10 feet; 4 years - 15 feet; 15 years - 20 x 20 feet ( avg ); largest on record - 40 x 20 ( rarely over 20 ) feet.
The foliage is deep red during spring, turning to glossy dark green during summer. The leaves turn bright orange during autumn.
The scarlet-red flower clusters, up to 14 inches in length, persist up to 100 days over the summer season.
The handsome bark is peeling.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( tolerates at least -5 F ). It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on June 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 25 2013 in Glenburnie, MD
* photos taken on July 16 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 12 2016 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Aug 17 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Apr 27 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 19 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 26 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 30 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 26 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 25 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 24 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 21 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Ebony Flame'
A moderate growing, upright, large shrub, reaching up to 12 x 8 feet.
The foliage is glossy black.
The intense deep red flowers are borne mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
* photo taken on Aug 13 2017 @ Howard Comm. College, Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Enduring Summer Fuchsia'
Moderate to fast growing, compact and rounded in habit, reaching up to 4.5 x 4.5 feet in 5 years, eventually to 8 x 8 feet.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy mid-green. The elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1.1 inches in size.
The intense fuchsia-pink flowers appear in panicles up to 5 x 4 inches in size, during mid-summer, repeating into early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has excellent powdery mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Enduring Summer Lavender'
Moderate to fast growing, compact and rounded in habit, reaching up to 5.7 x 5.7 feet in 5 years, eventually to 8 x 8 feet.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy mid-green. The elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1.2 inches in size.
The intense lavender-purple flowers appear during mid-summer, repeating into early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has excellent powdery mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Enduring Summer Red'
Moderate to fast growing, compact and rounded in habit, reaching up to 4.7 x 4.5 feet in 4 years, eventually to 8 x 8 feet.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy mid-green. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.8 x 1.2 inches in size.
The intense red flowers appear in panicles up to 4.2 x 4 inches in size, during mid-summer, repeating into early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has excellent powdery mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photo taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on July 26 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 7 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 23 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 1 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 23 2024 in Columbia, MD
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Enduring Summer White'
Moderate to fast growing, compact and rounded in habit, reaching up to 4.5 x 4.5 feet in 5 years, eventually to 8 x 8 feet.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy mid-green. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.3 x 0.7 inches in size.
The pure white flowers appear in panicles up to 4 x 4 inches in size, during mid-summer, repeating into early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has excellent powdery mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia faurei ( Japanese Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, large tree. Some records include: 35 years - 3 foot trunk diameter; largest on record - 65 x 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 3.5 feet. Just like Lagerstroemia indica, it is very long-lived, persisting as long as 400 years.
The mildew resistant deep green leaves turn red in the fall.
The white flower clusters, up to 5 x 6 inches, persist over a 70 day season.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, tolerating as low as -7 F with no damage.
This is one of the very few Crape Myrtles to thrive in the Vancouver and Seattle metro areas in the Pacific Northwest. Indian Crape Myrtle and any hybrids of such demand hot summers. This Crape Myrtle is NOT prone to pests or disease. 'Kiowa' is a cultivar of L. faurei.
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Apr 24 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Fantasy White' ( Fantasy White Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, graceful, vase-shaped, medium-size tree, reaching a maximum size of 65 x 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet.
The foliage is deep green during summer, turning to yellow during autumn.
Its blooms are pure white, persisting over a 70 day season.
The attractive exfoliating bark is red.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on May 30 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
Lagerstroemia faurei 'Kiowa' ( Kiowa Crape Myrtle )
No noticable difference from Lagerstroemia faurei
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Hopi ( Hopi Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, dense, upright, oblong, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 20 feet.
The foliage is bright blue-green at first, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn intense orange and red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 2.2 x 1.5 inches in size.
The abundant, intense mid-pink flower clusters, up to 6 x 7 inches, persist up to 100 days beginning during early to mid summer.
The bark is grayish-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 and reports of wood hardiness down to - 24 F need further verification. Can also be grown as a perennial in zone 5. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Oct 31 2024 in Ellicott City, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Lipan' ( Lipan Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet. The Lipan Crape Myrtle is similar in habit to the American Elm.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer. They turn to orange and red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 2.5 x 1.6 inches in size.
The purplish-red flower clusters, up to 7 x 9 inches, persist up to 80 days.
The attractive bark is whitish.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC
'Lunar Magic'
An upright, oblong large shrub, reaching up to 10 x 8 feet.
The foliage is deep blackish-purple.
The pure white flowers appear during early to mid summer, persisting into late summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It has high mildew resistance.
* photo taken on Sep 3 2019 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Majestic Orchid' ( Majestic Orchid Crape Myrtle )
A heavy-stemmed, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 22 feet.
The oblong leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are rich mid-green during summer.
The purplish-red flowers are borne on large clusters.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Miami' ( Miami Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, upright tree. Some records include: largest on record - 30 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 feet.
The foliage is deep red during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red in fall. The obovate leaves are up to 3.5 x 1.4 inches.
The intense deep pink flower clusters, up to 10 x 10 inches, persist up to 100 days.
The bark is deep brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 17 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 9 2018 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on Aug 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* miami crape myrtle in Rehoboth Beach, DC
* photo taken on July 21 2019 in Annapolis, MD
* photos taken on Oct 30 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 18 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 26 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 28 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 26 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 31 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 13 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Midnight Magic'
A moderate growing ( up to 2.5 feet per year ), upright, dense, rounded, medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 4.5 x 3 feet in 3 years, to 8 x 6 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is deep reddish-purple at first, turning to very deep purplish-green during summer. The leaves turn to glowing deep red during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The deep pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 4.5 x 3.6 inches in size, during late summer into early autumn.
The attractive bark is cinnamon-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 and exhibits superior mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on July 21 2024 in Columbia, MD
* patent photo
'Miss Frances'
A fast growing ( up to 5+ feet per year ), rounded to spreading, small tree, reaching up to 18 x 20 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly larger.
The foliage is glossy deep green, turning to orange and yellow during autumn.
The deep red flowers appear late June through August.
The bark is pale gray, flaking off to reveal orange beneath.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( perennial in zone 6 ), it is highly resistant to leaf diseases.
* photo taken on Oct 11 2019 in Elkridge, MD
'Miss Sandra'
* photo taken on Aug 30 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Moonlight Magic'
A moderate growing ( up to 2.5 feet per year ), upright large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 6.6 x 3 feet in 3 years, to 15 x 10 ( rarely over 10 x 9 ) feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is deep reddish-purple at first, turning to very deep purplish-green during summer. The leaves turn to glowing deep red during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.8 x 1.1 inches in size.
The pure white flowers are borne in panicles up to 5 x 4.2 inches in size, during late summer into early autumn.
The attractive bark is cinnamon-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 and exhibits superior mildew and leaf spot resistance.
Lagerstroemia 'Muskogee' ( Muskogee Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, medium-sized tree. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 feet; 15 years - 25 x 20 feet ( avg ); largest on record - 45 x 40 feet trunk diameter up to 2 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green, turning to yellow and red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 3.6 x 2 inches.
The lavender-pink flower clusters up to 12 x 5 inches, persist up to 120 days over the summer season.
The attractive bi-color bark is gray and pale brown.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, one tree is known to grow in zone 6a Oxford, Ohio. It can also be grown in zone 5 and 6 as a perennial on protected sites with a deep winter mulch. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 3 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 11 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 17 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Nov 14 2016 in Howard Co., MD
* photo taken on Nov 19 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Nov 20 2016 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 25 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Nov 2 2017 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Jan 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 10 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 3 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 8 2018 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 21 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photo taken on July 22 2021 in Laurel, MD
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Sep 2 2022 @ Smithsonian Institute, Wash, DC
* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Natchez' ( Natchez Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, medium-sized tree. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 7 feet; 15 years - 25 x 25 feet ( avg ); largest on record - 50 x 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 2.2 feet.
The foliage is bright green during spring, turning to glossy deep green during summer. The leaves turn to a combination of orange, reds and purples during autumn. The oblong leaves are up to 3.3 x 1.6 inches in size.
The huge, white clusters, up to 12 x 8 inches, persist up to 110 days during mid-summer to fall.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( root hardy to -17 F on sheltered sites ). It is highly mildew resistant. It may be propagated by hardwood cuttings rooted in cold frames during late fall and winter.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on June 30 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on May 7 2014 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on Feb 8 2014 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Sep 17 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Sep 19 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photos taken on Oct 15 2016 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Nov 19 2016 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photos taken on Oct 30 2018 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on July 21 2019 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Jan 15 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Sep 16 2022 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on Nov 6 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 17 2023 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC
Lagerstroemia 'Osage' ( Osage Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, semi-pendulous, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 30 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 feet.
The foliage is light blue-green during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 4 x 1.6 inches in size.
The deep pink flower clusters, up to 8 x 6 inches, persist up to 100 days over the summer season.
The indian-red colored bark is very attractive.
Hardy zones 7b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant. It is best pruned to 1 or 3 trunks when young and limbed up and thinned.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Pecos' ( Pecos Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, spreading, rounded, medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 15 x 11 feet. Some records include: 15 years - 12 x 10 feet.
The foliage is purplish at first during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to purplish-red during autumn. The obovate leaves are up to 2.4 x 1 inches.
The intense pink flower clusters, up to 8 x 8 inches, persist up to 100 days over the summer season, often persisting into autumn.
The multicolor exfoliating bark is gray and dark brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Highly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Peppermint Lace' ( Peppermint Lace Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, upright, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 22 feet. Some records include: 15 years - 20 x 20 feet.
The foliage is reddish during spring, turning to bright green during summer. The leaves turn to yellow or sometimes red during autumn.
The blooms over the summer season last up to 100 days and are deep pinkish-red ( edged in white ).
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Moderately mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Petite Orchid' ( Petite Orchid Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, upright, small to medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 5 feet. The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer, then to yellow during autumn.
The orchid-purple flower clusters, persist up to 90 days over the summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Petite Plum' ( Petite Plum Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, small to medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 5 feet. The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer, then to yellow during autumn.
The red-purple flower clusters, persist up to 90 days during the summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
Lagerstroemia 'Petite Red Imp' ( Petite Red Imp Crape Myrtle )
A moderate-growing, small shrub, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 4 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer, then to yellow during autumn.
The red flower clusters, persist up to 90 days over the summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Unfortunately it is not mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Petite Snow' ( Petite Snow Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, small to medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 4 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to deep green during summer, then to yellow during autumn.
The white flower clusters, persist up to 90 days over the summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
* photo taken on Sep 5 2012 in Burtonsville, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Pink Bijou'
A compact shrub, reaching just 3 feet.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
* photo taken on Aug 29 2023 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Oct 18 2023 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Pink Velour' ( Pink Velour Crape Myrtle )
An upright, somewhat rounded, small tree. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 3 feet; 3 years - 10 feet; 5 years - 13 x 6 feet with a trunk diameter of 5 inches; 10 years - 16 feet; largest on record - 20 x 25 feet.
The foliage is purplish-red during spring and summer; turning to orange and red during autumn. In very hot climates, the foliage may turn to deep green by late summer.
The intense mid-pink flowers persist up to 120 days during the summer season.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( tolerates -8 F as woody plant, -13 F as perennial ). It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on July 13 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2012 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on July 30 2012 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on July 21 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 18 2013 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on July 30 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 28 2017 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Jan 15 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 30 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 30 2022 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 22 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Pixie White' ( Pixie White Crape Myrtle )
A dwarf, spreading, small to medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 6 ( usually half that ) feet.
The foliage is deep green.
The white flowers are borne on abundant, small pyramidal panicles all summer long.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
* photo taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park
Lagerstroemia 'Plum Magic'
A moderate growing ( up to 2.5 feet per year ), upright large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet in 4 years, to 15 x 10 ( rarely over 10 x 9 ) feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is deep reddish-purple at first, turning to very deep purplish-green during summer. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The intense fuchsia-pink flowers are borne in panicles up to 4.3 x 3 inches in size, during late summer into early autumn.
The attractive bark is cinnamon-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 and exhibits superior mildew and leaf spot resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 16 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 1 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 11 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 30 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 26 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 22 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 26 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 22 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 31 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2024 in Timonium, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Pocomoke' ( Pocomoke Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, dense, rounded, small shrub. Some records include: 5 years - 3 x 5 feet; 9 years - 5 x 6 feet; largest on record - 8.5 x 10 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to glossy deep green during summer then to red during autumn. The leaves are up to 1.5 x 0.7 inches in size.
The intense hot pink flower clusters, up to 1.5 x 2 inches, during mid-summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( young plants may be cut back to the ground during the winter...do not remove them until at least mid May as they will often regrow vigorously ). Young plants may sometimes grow too dense, thinning them during late winter may increase growth and size during the following summer. Overgrown plants can be cut back to near the base during winter and will regenerate quickly. It is highly mildew resistant. Softwood and semi-hardwood cuttings taken before flowering root easily in about 4 weeks under mist at 1000 ppm IBA.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on July 13 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 3 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2012 in Harford Co., MD
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on July 7 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 17 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Apr 20 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 26 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 18 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 16 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 4 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 9 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 24 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Dec 17 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Aug 2 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 26 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 8 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Potomac' ( Potomac Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, upright, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 26 x 15 feet.
The foliage is purplish at first during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn.
The light pink flower clusters, up to 11 x 7 inches, persist up to 90 days during the summer season.
Hardy zones 7b to 9. It is moderately mildew resistant.
* photo taken on July 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on July 27 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 24 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 7 2017 in Columbia, MD
* potomac crape myrtle in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on Aug 29 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Powhatan' ( Powhatan Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, dense, rounded, vase-shaped, large shrub to small tree, reaching a maximum size of 20 x 20 feet.
The glossy mid-green leaves turn red during autumn.
The reddish-purple flower clusters, are up to 13 x 10 inches, persist up to 75 days during the summer season.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on July 4 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Sep 3 2023 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Purple Cow'
A moderate growing, dense, upright, medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 5.7 x 6 feet in 4 years, eventually to 10 x 7 feet. It was developed by famous horticulturalist Dr. Michael A. Dirr. It makes a great stand alone shrub but is also good for grouping or as an informal hedge.
The foliage is glossy deep green, turning to orange and red during autumn. The obovate leaves average 2 x 1.3 inches in size.
The abundant, mid-purple flowers appear in panicles up to 3.7 x 3 inches in size, during mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on July 10 2018 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Purple Magic'
Compact and rounded in habit, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet in 4 years, to 10 x 10 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy deep green. The elliptical leaves are up to 2 x 1 inches in size.
The crinkly intense bright purple flowers appear in panicles up to 4 x 3 inches in size, during early summer, often repeating during late summer if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 7 to 9, the foliage is highly mildew and leaf spot resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Raspberry Dazzle' ( Raspberry Dazzle Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, compact, upright, rounded, small shrub, reaching up to 2.7 x 2.7 feet in 3 years, 5 x 3 feet in 5 years, eventually to 6 x 6 feet.
The foliage is bronze at first, turning to deep green. The leaves turn to reddish-purple during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inch in size.
The abundant raspberry-red flowers appear in panicles up to 3.5 x 4 inches in size, during mid-summer into early autumn ( sometimes later if deadheaded ).
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as dieback shrub ). Disease resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Raspberry Sundae' ( Raspberry Sundae Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, dense, upright, columnar, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 22 x 20 feet. Some records include: 12 years - 17 feet; 15 years - 20 x 15 feet.
The foliage is reddish during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn.
The red flower clusters, up to 9 inches in length, persist up to 90 days, during late summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( killed to ground at -13 F ). It is moderately mildew resistant.
* photo from unknown source on internet
* photos taken on July 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 16 2015 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Red Filii'
A vigorous, compact, dense, small shrub, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet in 5 years, eventually up to 7 x 7 feet. As a perennial in colder climates it may remain under 1.5 x 1.5 feet. In the midwest, Great Lakes and New England, it is generally reduced to a perennial, however is still along with the other Filli hybrids, the hardiest of all Crape Myrtles. It has been proven to be solidly hardy in places such as Nebraska, Chicago ILL, Michigan and Ontario, Canada. Plants form a 5 gallon plant in nursery production in as little as 2 years.
The leaves, up to 1.5 x 0.7 inches, are red-green at first, turning to glossy deep green during summer then to bronze or purple-red during autumn. The foliage is very pest and disease resistant. In zone 5, the foliage appears around mid May.
The abundant, intense hot-reddish-pink to red flowers last from mid-summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( 4 & 5 as a perennial, tolerating as low as -30 F or possibly even colder ). In colder zones where it is grown as a perennial, mulch crown heavily during winter to increase survival rates.
Lagerstroemia 'Red Rocket'
A narrow, upright, small to medium-sized tree, reaching an eventual maximum size of 30 x 10 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 feet; 3 years - 7 feet; 5 years - 12 feet; 15 years - 23 x 15 feet ( avg ); largest on record - 38 x 15 feet.
The thick foliage is purplish-red during spring and early summer, turning to deep green by mid-summer. The foliage turns to orange or bronze-red during autumn.
The spectacular intense deep red flowers are borne on huge panicles up to 22 x 12 inches in size. The bloom season last up to 100 days beginning during mid-summer.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( tolerates -8 F ). It is highly mildew resistant. It is very easy to propagate from cuttings.
* photos taken on July 27 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Jul 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
'Red Rooster'
An upright medium-sized shrub, up to 5 x 4 feet in 4 years, up to 10 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more. It is an introduction of the famed horticulturalist Dr Michael Dirr.
The foliage is deep red at first, later transitioning to deep green. The foliage turns to intense orange and red during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.8 x 1 inches in size.
The large panicles ( up to 5 x 4 inches in size ) of bright red flowers appear mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 9, it has superior disease resistance.
Lagerstroemia 'Regal Red' ( Regal Red Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, upright, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 20 x 15 feet.
The foliage is light to mid green for most of the season turning to red during autumn.
The intense deep pinkish-red flower clusters persist up to 70 days over the summer season.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Rhapsody in Pink'
An upright small tree, reaching up to 15 + x 12 feet. Fast growing, it can grow at rates exceeding 4 feet when young. Some records include: 5 years - 10 feet.
The foliage is deep reddish-purple at first later turning to deep green. The leaves turn to orange and red during autumn.
The abundant, pale pink flowers appear mid-summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.
* photo taken on Aug 5 2013 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Royal Velvet' ( Royal Velvet Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 12 x 12 feet.
The thick, leathery foliage is deep red during spring, turning to purple or purplish-green during summer. The leaves turn to orange or red during autumn.
The intense pink flowers are borne during the summer. The flowers open from red buds.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Ruby Dazzle' ( Ruby Dazzle Crape Myrtle )
A vigorous but dense, compact, rounded shrub, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet in 4 years, eventually reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet if not cut back hard during late winter. It looks great in mass plantings as a substitute for Crimson Pygmy Barberry.
The glossy ruby-red foliage turns to orangish-red during autumn.
The mid-pink flowers appear mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as a dieback shrub ). It has superior disease resistance.
* photo taken on Aug 25 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 17 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
'Ruffled Red Magic'
A moderate growing ( up to 2.5 feet per year ), upright, dense, rounded, medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 6.2 x 3 feet in 4 years, to 12 x 8 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The foliage is deep reddish-orange at first, turning to very deep purplish-green during summer. The leaves turn to glowing deep red during autumn. The elliptical leaves are up to 1.6 x 1 inches in size.
The intense bright red flowers are borne in panicles up to 4.5 x 3.6 inches in size, during late summer into early autumn.
The attractive bark is cinnamon-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 and exhibits superior mildew and leaf spot resistance.
Lagerstroemia 'Sarahs Favorite' ( Sarah's Favorite Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, medium-sized, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 50 x 30 feet. It is similar in appearance to 'Natchez'.
The deep green foliage turns to red during autumn
This plant is a white festival of bloom over most of the summer season into fall lasting up to 120 days.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It is hightly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Seminole' ( Seminole Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, dense, rounded, large shrub to small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 20 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to glossy mid-green during summer. The leaves turn to yellow, orange and red during autumn.
The abundant intense mid-pink flower clusters, up to 8 x 7 inches, persist up to 75 days during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Sep 21 2013 in Harford Co., MD
* photos taken on Feb 2009 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 2010 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Jul 2013 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Sep 13 2013 in Harford Co., MD
* photos taken on June 2015 in Harford Co., MD
* photos taken on Nov 13 2016 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Jan 18 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 5 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 9 2017 in Harford Co., MD
* photos taken on Feb 16 2019 @ Howard Comm. College, Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Sioux' ( Sioux Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 20 feet. Some records include: 4 years - 14 x 6.5 feet.
The foliage is reddish during spring turning glossy deep reddish-green during summer. The leaves turn to deep red during autumn.
The large, intense mid-pink flower clusters, up to 9 x 7 inches, last up to 100 days during the summer season.
The bark is gray-brown.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Sep 5 2014 in Burtonsville, MD
* photo taken on Oct 12 2014 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 5 2012 in Burtonsville, MD
* photo taken on Sep 16 2014 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Jan 16 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on Oct 27 2023 @ Howard Community College, Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Siren Red' ( Siren Red Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing, upright, oval, large shrub, reaching a maximum size of 12 x 10 feet. Some records include: 1st year - 3 feet; 3 years - 8 feet.
The foliage is purplish-red during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves turn intense orangish-red during fall.
The intense deep red flowers appear in huge panicles, up to 16 x 10 inches in size, from mid-summer, sometimes persisting late into fall.
The attractive exfoliating bark is brownish-red.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Sep 21 2021 in Laurel, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Snow Dazzle'
A vigorous but compact, rounded, small shrub, reaching up to 2.3 x 2 feet in 3 years; 3 x 3 feet in 5 years, eventually to 3.5 x 4 feet.
The foliage is bronze at first, turning to deep green. The leaves turn to reddish-purple during autumn.
The abundant, pure white flowers appear during mid to late summer, often repeating well into autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 as a dieback shrub ). It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on Sep 4 2016 in Elkridge, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Sunset Magic'
A moderate growing ( up to 2 feet per year ), dense, upright, large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 3 x 2.5 feet in 3 years, eventually to 10 x 8 feet.
The foliage is glossy purplish-black. The elliptical leaves average 1.7 x 0.8 inches in size.
The intense scarlet-red flowers are borne in inflorescences up to 4.5 x 3.6 inches in size. They appear during early to mid summer, then repeating about 3 months later if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, resistant to cecrospora, leaf spot and powdery mildew.
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2021 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 28 2023 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on May 29 2024 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
Lagerstroemia 'Sweetheart Dazzle'
A moderate growing, very dense, compact, dwarf shrub, reaching up to 4 x 5 feet in 10 years, with an eventual maximum size of 5 x 7 feet.
The deep green foliage is mildew-resistant. The foliage turns to orange-red in fall.
The abundant, intense deep pink flowers are borne early summer to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.
* photos taken on July 13 2011 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Thunderstruck Lavender Blast'
A fast growing, dense, sturdy, small tree, reaching up to 4.4 x 2 feet in 3 years, eventually to 15 x 12 feet. This Crape Myrtle originated as a hybrid between Lagerstroemia x indica ‘Ebony Flame’ and Lagerstroemia indica ‘Natchez' as part of a planned breeding program in Mississippi.
The foliage is glossy, deep purplish-black. The elliptical leaves are up to 2.2 x 1.3 inches in size.
The soft lavender flowers appear from late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6b to 9, it has excellent leaf spot and powdery mildew resistance.
* photos taken on Aug 15 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 27 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 10 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 19 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Tonto' ( Tonto Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing shrub or small tree ( depending on how pruned ), reaching a maximum size of 16 x 22 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 4 feet; 5 years - 10 x 9 feet; 10 years - 16 x 18 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring turning to green with red tinge during summer. The leaves turn anywhere from scarlet-red to purple during autumn.
It abundantly bears intense bright purplish-red flower clusters, up to 8 x 5 inches, persisting up to 75 days beginning mid-summer.
The whitish bark is very attractive!
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6b with occasional winter dieback, one clone is reported to have grown in zone 6a as a tree wood hardy down to - 20 F ). It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on July 20 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 18 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 22 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 9 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 8 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 12 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 29 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 18 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 22 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Tuskarora' ( Tuskarora Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, small to medium-sized tree. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 6 feet; largest on record - 45 x 20 feet.
The foliage is reddish during spring, turning to glossy deep green during summer. The leaves turn to fiery orangish-red during autumn. The leaves are up to 3.2 x 1.6 inches in size.
It bears purplish red flower clusters, up to 12 x 8 inches in size, lasting up to 70 days beginning mid-summer.
The bark is pale-brown.
Hardy zones 7b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on June 30 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on July 11 2014 @ Smithsonian Inst., Wash., DC
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 20 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Townhouse'
Similar to 'Natchez', reaching 30 feet or more, with deep reddish-brown bark. It is mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Tuskeegie' ( Tuskeegie Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing, horizontally-branched, small to medium-sized tree, reaching a maximum size of 45 x 34 feet.
The foliage is reddish during spring, turning deep green during summer. The elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 2.3 inches, turn to red in the fall.
The dark reddish-pink flower clusters, up to 14 x 7 inches, persist up to 100 days during mid summer to early autumn.
The attractive bark is light-gray and tan mottled.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on 4th of July in Washington, D.C.
* photos taken on Feb 8 2014 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Oct 23 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Twilight Magic'
A moderate growing, upright tree, reaching up to 16 x 8 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 3 feet.
The foliage is purplish-black
The intense fuchsia-pink flowers last early summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( usually only root hardy in 6 ), it is highly mildew and leaf spot resistant.
* photos taken on June 30 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 1 2019 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 13 2021 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2021 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on Sep 28 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 29 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 21 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 27 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Twilight'
A fast growing, broad-spreading, medium-sized tree, reaching up to 25 x 20 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 5 feet.
The foliage is deep green, turning to orange and red during autumn.
The bright purple flowers appear in large panicles during late summer.
The pale gray bark peels off to reveal pink to reddish-brown beneath.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
* photo taken on Aug 14 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 10 2024 in Columbia, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Velmas Royal Delight' ( Velmas Royal Delight Crape )
A moderate growing, medium-sized shrub, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 6 feet.
The deep green foliage turns to red during autumn.
The intense purplish-red to violet-purple flower clusters, are up to 9 inches in length.
The exfoliating bark is reddish-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( reportedly wood hardy to - 18 F ). It is mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Victor' ( Victor Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 5 feet in 5 years, 5 x 8 feet in 15 years and eventually at least 6 x 10 feet.
The foliage is deep red during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves, up to 2 x 1.3 inches in size, can turn either yellow or red during autumn.
It bears large, bright red flower clusters lasting up to 85 days beginning mid-summer.
Hardy zones 6b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
Lagerstroemia 'Violet Filli'
A vigorous, low, bushy, dense, dwarf Crape Myrtle, reaching a maximum size of 1.5 x 3 feet. In the midwest, Great Lakes and New England, it is generally reduced to a perennial, however is still along with the other Filli hybrids, the hardiest of all Crape Myrtles. It has been proven to be solidly hardy in places such as Nebraska, Chicago ILL, Michigan and Ontario, Canada.
In zone 5, the foliage appears around mid May and is red-green at first, turning to glossy deep green during summer then to orange-red during autumn.
The abundant, vibrant, violet flowers last from mid summer until autumn frosts.
The leaves, up to 1.5 x 0.7 inches, are very pest and disease resistant.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, tolerating at least as low as -30 F if mulched heavily on a well drained site during winter.
Lagerstroemia 'Watermelon Red' ( Watermelon Red Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 25 feet.
The foliage is purplish at first, turning to bright green during summer. The leaves turn to red during autumn.
The flowers are red.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is prone to mildew.
Lagerstroemia 'White Chocolate' ( White Chocolate Crape Myrtle )
A moderate growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 16 x 16 feet. Some records include: 5 years - 8 feet.
The foliage is red at first during spring, turning to very deep purple during summer. The leaves turn to yellow and orange during autumn.
The large flower clusters are white.
The attractive exfoliating bark is brownish-red.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6b on protected sites ). Mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 11 2016 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 5 2009 in Clarksville, MD
Lagerstroemia 'Wichita' ( Wichita Crape Myrtle )
A vase-shaped small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 24 ( averaging 20 x 15 ) feet.
The glossy foliage is purplish-green during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The fall color is deep red. The leaves are up to 3 x 2 inches in size.
The large lavender flower clusters persist from mid-summer to mid-autumn.
The attractive exfoliating bark is reddish-brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Mildew resistant.
* photo taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Lagerstroemia 'Yuma' ( Yuma Crape Myrtle )
A fast growing small tree, reaching a maximum size of 25 x 20 feet.
The foliage is bronze-green during spring, turning to deep green during summer. The leaves, up to 3 x 1.6 inches in size, turn to red in the fall.
The large, light pink, flower clusters, up to 14 x 9 inches, persist up to 90 days during the summer.
The bark is pale-gray.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. Mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Lagerstroemia 'Zuni' ( Zuni Crape Myrtle )
A very fast growing small tree, reaching a maximum size of 30 x 25 feet.
The foliage is purplish during spring, turning to glossy deep green during summer. The leaves, up to 2.2 x 1.2 inches in size, turn to orange or red during autumn.
The purplish-red flower clusters, to 6 x 5 inches, persist up to 100 days during mid-summer to early autumn.
The bark is brownish-gray.
Hardy zones 7b to 9. It is highly mildew resistant.
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
br />* photos taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Other Crape Myrtles
Lagerstroemia indica ( Indian Crape Myrtle )
A medium-sized, deciduous tree, reaching a maximum size of 52 x 42 feet with a trunk diameter of 3.4 feet, that is native to southeastern Asia ( from Nepal to Japan; south to India to Malaysia to Phillipines ).
The oblong leaves are up to 4 x 1.6 ( rarely over 3 ) inches in size.
Hardy zones 8 to 9..most Crape Myrtle hybrids are the result of this spectacular bloomer with the more cold hardy, mildew resistant Lagerstroemia fauriei.
* historic archive photo
Lagerstroemia limlii ( Zhejiang Crape Myrtle )
A very rare, medium-sized tree, reaching up to 50 x 50 feet in size, that is native to southeast China. Some records include: 10 years - 22 feet; 16 years - 24 feet; largest on record - trunk diameter of 6 feet.
The drooping leaves are long and narrow, up to 7 x 3 inches. The thick blue-green foliage turns a very attractive orange-red in autumn.
The flowers are soft lavender pink to purple.
The bark is peeling and attractive.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.
* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.
Lagerstroemia parviflora ( Small Flowered Crape Myrtle )
A large tree that is native to the Himalayas from Nepal to Bhutan; south to India to Burma. Some records include: largest on record - 3o feet with a trunk diameter of 1.9 feet; first year from seed - 1 foot.
The oblong leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The fragrant small white flowers are borne on panicles during summer.
The attractive bark is bright brown.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 ( est ) in full sun on well drained soil. It is drought tolerant. Seedlings are much less cold hardy than adult trees.
Lagerstroemia pubescens
A subtropical tree native to India that is typically a medium-sized tree.
Some records include: largest on record - 100 feet with a trunk diameter of 3.8 feet.
Lagerstroemia speciosa ( Queens Crape Myrtle )
Also called Lagerstroemia flos reginae. Some records include: largest on record - trunk diameter of 3.8 feet. The wood is valuable for use in construction and furniture. It is a large, semi-decidous tree, native to tropical forests from India to the Phillipines; south to Malaysia.
The mid-green foliage turns to red before falling.
The flowers are lavender-pink in color.
This Crape Myrtle is strictly tropical, hardy only zone 10 and warmer. It requires full sun and is not tolerant of salt.
* recommended link
https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Queen%20Crape%20Myrtle.html
* additional crape myrtle photos - collections at U.S. National Arboretum taken Mar 26 2021
Additional Crape Myrtle Cultivars
https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Thunderstruck-White-Lightning-Crapemyrtle
https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP31534P2/en?oq=Lagerstroemia+x+%27JM4%27+PP31534
https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Thunderstruck-Rumblin-Red-Crapemyrtle
https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP31429P2/en?oq=Lagerstroemia+x+%27JM2%27+PP31429
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP33292.html
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP33291.html
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP31384.html
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP32515.html
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP31385.html ( Rikki Tikki Rouge Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP30765.html ( Infinity White Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP29007.html ( Infinity Watermelon Crape Myrytle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP33209.html ( Summerlasting Coconut Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP30766.html ( infiniti Purple Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP33208.html ( Summerlasting Raspberry Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/y2020/0245518.html ( Dark Roast Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP29478.html ( Spiced Plum Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP28778.html ( Like a Latte Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/y2020/0245517.html ( Chai Berry Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP32973.html ( Lava Java Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP32244.html ( Peppermint Mocha Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP29509.html ( Bubble Tea Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP32243.html ( Perky Pink Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP29940.html ( Cool Beans Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP28281.html ( Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/PP28759.html( Sweet Macchiato Crape Myrtle )
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/y2013/0104272.html ( Shumaka Crape Myrtle )
Crape myrtles LOVE me and my yard here in South Carolina. I have hand-planted from larger trees, the offshoots, about 6 more in my yard. I see that many people still spell crape myrtles with an e crepe ( the paper), and most all gardening books spell it with the a. good post, thanks, Gina
ReplyDeleteThe myrtles really been put in a show this year. If you have not been - go through trial and Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville. I think I might have the same type of environment as its beautiful cemetery in Florence.
ReplyDeletePeppermint Pink Crepe Myrtle
You say "too many stems is bad as it will hinder the trees natural form".
ReplyDeleteIf the plant is naturally growing multiple stems is that not it's "natural form"?