Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica
Crepe myrtle has the longest bloom period of any common landscape tree — over 100 days of continuous flowering, earning it the nickname 'lilac of the South'.
How to care for crepe myrtle
DON'T 'crepe murder' — pruning to stubs in late winter ruins the natural vase shape and weakens the tree. Selectively remove crossing branches only. Choose mildew-resistant cultivars (Natchez, Tuscarora, Sioux).
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Treat it as a long-term anchor: place it first, then design smaller beds and seating areas around its mature canopy.
Pair it with
Boxwood, Holly, Daylily make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, group it with other low-water plants so one irrigation zone can stay lean, and check USDA zones 6-10 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 6-25 ft tall (cultivar-dependent), 6-15 ft wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Crepe Myrtle grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6-10.
Frequently asked about crepe myrtle
What USDA zones does Crepe Myrtle grow in?+
Crepe Myrtle is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Crepe Myrtle need?+
Crepe Myrtle prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Crepe Myrtle?+
Crepe Myrtle has low water needs. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. DON'T 'crepe murder' — pruning to stubs in late winter ruins the natural vase shape and weakens the tree. Selectively remove crossing branches only. Choose mildew-resistant cultivars (Natchez, Tuscarora, Sioux).
How big does Crepe Myrtle get?+
Crepe Myrtle reaches a mature size of 6-25 ft tall (cultivar-dependent), 6-15 ft wide. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Crepe Myrtle?+
Crepe Myrtle pairs well with Boxwood, Holly, Daylily, Hydrangea. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Crepe Myrtle?+
Common Crepe Myrtle problems include powdery mildew (older cultivars); crepe myrtle bark scale. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Crepe Myrtle bloom?+
Crepe Myrtle blooms in mid summer to early fall (100+ days) in pink, red, lavender, white, watermelon. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
Design a garden with crepe myrtle in minutes
Drag plants into a 3D space, walk through it, or upload a photo and let AI redesign it. Test spacing around its mature size before you plant.
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