Lagerstroemia
| When to Plant: | |
| Spring |
| Blooms: | |
| Summer to Fall |
| Light Requirements: | |
| Full Sun |
| Plant Height: | ||
| 15-25' | ||
| Hardiness Zones: | |
| Grow as Perennial in zones 7-9. Grow as Annual elsewhere. Find Your Zone |
| Planting Depth: | |
| Deep enough so that the crown is even with the ground level. |
| Plant Spacing: | |
| 6-10' |
| Plant Type: | |
| Bare Root |
Crape Myrtles (Lagerstroemia) are a favorite in the south - sometimes call the Southern Lilac. Selected and prized for their long summer bloom period, they are often called the plant of the 100 day bloom.
Crape Myrtles produce showy summer flowers, attractive multi-colored bark and brilliant fall color make them year-round garden performers. Their stunning, unique winter architecture makes this plant exceed most landscape choices for four-season interest and appeal.
Soil preparation: Crape Myrtle prefers rich, well-drained soil in full sun.
Planting: Dig a hole 8-10" deep and wide enough so the roots can be spread apart. Return soil loosely to the depth needed by the plant, so that all of its roots will be covered with about 2" of soil. Place plant in hole, spread roots and fill with good loose garden soil.
Watering: Water thoroughly at planting. While actively growing, water frequently and thoroughly so that water will reach roots.
Mulching: Mulch to keep the soil cool and prevent soil from drying out.
Fertilizing: Fertilize after planting and every 3 months during the growing season.
Crape Myrtles bloom on new wood and should be pruned in winter or early spring. Remove basal suckers, twiggy growth, crossing branches and branches growing to the center of the plant. Also remove side branches up to a height of 4-5' - this exposes the handsome bark of the trunks.
