Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica
Southern landscape staple with long-lasting summer blooms and attractive bark.
Care Instructions
Drought-tolerant once established (1+ year). Water weekly during first summer. Avoid overhead watering — promotes powdery mildew. Established trees need supplemental water only during extended drought.
Requires 8+ hours of full sun for maximum blooms. Shade dramatically reduces flowering. Best planted away from large shade trees.
Adaptable to most well-drained soils, pH 5.0–6.5. Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which reduce blooms.
Seasonal Guide
Best Planting Time
Spring through summer in warm climates. Container plants can be planted any time the ground isn't frozen.
Bloom / Growth Season
Blooms June–September on new wood — one of the longest blooming trees in the South. Multiple bloom cycles possible with deadheading.
Dormancy
Loses leaves after first frost. Do NOT "crape murder" (heavy pruning). Only remove dead wood and crossing branches in late winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Powdery mildew (white powder on leaves)
Choose mildew-resistant varieties (Natchez, Tuscarora). Improve air circulation. Apply fungicide as preventive in humid seasons.
Aphid infestation (black sooty mold follows)
Aphids attract ants which farm them. Control ants with sticky tree wrap. Spray aphids with strong water stream or insecticidal soap.
"Crape murder" (improper heavy pruning)
Never top crape myrtles. Only prune to shape, remove suckers, and improve structure. Topping creates ugly knuckles and weakens the tree.
Plant Details
USDA Zones
6a, 6b, 7a, 7b +5
Maintenance
low
Mature Height
10-25 ft
Native Regions
China, Korea
Ready to plant?
Find Crape Myrtle and related supplies on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate, YardSage earns from qualifying purchases. This helps us keep the app free.
Similar Plants
Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Stunning spring bloomer with magenta-pink flowers that appear before leaves.
Knockout Rose
Rosa Radrazz
Disease-resistant rose that blooms continuously from spring to frost.
Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
Native wildflower with bright yellow petals and dark centers.