Crepe Myrtle - Beginner's Guide

by Bilal Iqbal – October 29, 2018

Crepe Myrtles: A Kaleidoscope of Beauty for Your Garden

In the world of ornamental trees and shrubs, few species can rival the versatility, beauty, and charm of Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.). With their vibrant blooms, stunning colors, and diverse growth habits, Crepe Myrtles have captured the hearts of gardeners and landscapers alike. Whether you're aiming for a tranquil retreat, a burst of summer color, or an elegant focal point, these remarkable plants offer a wide range of options to suit every garden's needs.

A Tapestry of Sizes and Shapes: One of the most appealing characteristics of Crepe Myrtles is their remarkable diversity in size and shape. From small shrubs to more giant trees, they offer options that can fit into any garden setting. Dwarf varieties, such as the 'Pocomoke' and 'Chickasaw,' stand at a diminutive 2 to 3 feet tall, making them perfect choices for container gardening, front borders, or even bonsai enthusiasts. These smaller cultivars burst into vibrant bloom like their larger counterparts, proving that good things come in small packages.

For those with more space, mid-sized crape myrtles like the 'Natchez' and 'Tuscarora' balance compactness and grandeur. Typically reaching 10 to 20 feet, these varieties are well-suited for small gardens, hedges, or focal points in mixed borders. Their moderate height allows for easier maintenance while providing a spectacular floral display.

The taller Crepe Myrtle varieties are the show's stars for more significant landscapes or those seeking to make a bold statement. Reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet or more, types like the 'Muskogee' and 'Dynamite' create an awe-inspiring presence, commanding attention with their impressive stature and breathtaking blossoms. These tall cultivars are often used as shade trees, street trees, or anchor plants for expansive gardens, where they contribute both beauty and a sense of scale.

A Paint Palette of Colors:

One of the defining features of Crepe Myrtles is their ability to paint the garden with an array of mesmerizing colors. From pastels to bold and vibrant hues, the spectrum of Crepe Myrtle blossoms covers nearly every shade imaginable. The classic whites, pinks, and reds dominate the color palette, offering options that cater to a wide range of aesthetic preferences.

 

Red-blooming Crepe Myrtles, like the aptly named 'Dynamite,' offers a fiery statement that demands attention. The rich red blossoms are synonymous with passion and vitality, making them a fantastic choice for creating dramatic focal points. These varieties create a striking contrast that adds depth and intensity to any garden scene.

Growth Habits for Every Landscape:

Beyond their size and color, Crepe Myrtles exhibit diverse growth habits, further enhancing their suitability for various garden designs. Understanding these growth patterns can help you select the perfect Crepe Myrtle for your landscape.

Single-Trunk Trees:

 Many Crepe Myrtle varieties can be trained to develop a single, sturdy trunk, lending them the appearance of a small tree. This growth habit is perfect for those seeking a formal focal point or an elegant addition to their garden. The single-trunk trees create a sense of verticality and structure that can be especially appealing in more significant landscapes.

Multi-Trunk Trees:

Crepe Myrtles are known for their stunning multi-trunk forms, where multiple slender stems arise from the ground, creating a graceful and natural appearance. Multi-trunk varieties are excellent for adding texture and visual interest to the garden. These forms can be especially effective when used as standalone specimens or in small groups, allowing their architectural beauty to shine.

Shrubs and Bushes:

Some Crepe Myrtle varieties exhibit a more shrub-like or bushy growth habit. These types are versatile additions to any landscape, suitable for hedges, borders, or mass plantings. Their compact nature makes them easy to manage and shape, allowing for creative pruning and artistic expression.

Caring for Crepe Myrtles:

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Pruning: Crepe Myrtles benefit from regular pruning, typically performed during late winter or early spring. When pruning, avoid the controversial practice known as "crepe murder," which involves severe cutting back of branches. Instead, opt for careful pruning to maintain the plant's natural beauty.
  2. Watering:
  3. While Crepe Myrtles are generally drought-tolerant once established, they benefit from consistent watering, especially during periods of extended dryness. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage profound root growth. Applying a layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
  4. Fertilization:  Providing the proper nutrients is crucial for vibrant blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth begins. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
  5. Pest and Disease Management:
  6.  Crepe Myrtles are relatively resilient, but they can be susceptible to aphids, powdery mildew, and other pests and diseases. Regular inspections are crucial to preventing infestations. Choose disease-resistant varieties to reduce the likelihood of issues.
  7. Winter Protection:
  8. Some Crepe Myrtle varieties may benefit from winter protection in colder climates, especially during their early years. Applying mulch around the base and wrapping the branches in burlap can help shield the plant from freezing temperatures and harsh winds.

Conclusion: A Garden Enriched by Crepe Myrtles:

Crepe Myrtles offers an incredible array of sizes, colors, and growth habits, making them a versatile and captivating choice for any garden. From the charming dwarf varieties that fit snugly in small spaces to the majestic trees that command attention in more significant landscapes, these plants have something to offer every gardener. Their stunning blossoms, vibrant foliage, and unique growth patterns add depth, character, and beauty to any outdoor setting.

Whether you're aiming to create a serene oasis, a vibrant burst of color, or an inviting space for gatherings, Crepe Myrtles can play a starring role in bringing your vision to life. These plants can transform your garden into a living masterpiece with careful selection, thoughtful care, and creativity.

 

 

 

 

Products from the article

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle is a striking deciduous shrub or small tree with vibrant lavender-pink flowers and smooth, cinnamon-colored bark. It adds a burst of color and elegance to gardens and landscapes. This famous ornamental tree offers many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. With its stunning visual appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance, it has become a favored choice for many landscapers and homeowners alike.  Muskogee Crepe Myrtle Is A Great Choice For Homeowners  The Muskogee Crepe Myrtle is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to add interest, texture, and color to their landscape. Each tree has smooth, brown stems that fan out into a vase shape. The branches contain even rows of oval leaves in a beautiful deep green shade. These attractive colors and textures become even more exciting when this tree blooms with lavender flowers. Its vibrant look will surely draw the eye wherever you plant this beautiful tree. Starting in spring, these trees begin to produce cone-shaped bunches of flowers. Each flower cluster consists of several small, individual, pinkish-purple petals with a crinkled appearance similar to tissue paper. After going through their flowering season, these trees produce clumps of berries that add even more visual interest to the tree. Clumps of small, round berries on the end of each branch gradually transform from shiny, green berries to brown, serrated seed pods. This tree's flowering and berry-producing seasons can last several months because it produces new flowers regularly. Explore the Many Ways to Garden With Muskogee Crepe Myrtle These trees have endless purposes throughout the landscape. A tidy row of them can be a lovely way to border a walkway or fill in narrow strips of land. Standalone versions can be a focal point on a lawn and look great, bordered with other flowers or decorative grasses. You can even use clusters of these trees to create a hedge that provides privacy and shade. The Versatile and Appealing Shape of Muskogee Crepe Myrtle Muskogee Crepe Myrtle comes in many shapes and sizes. Some landscapers keep it as a compact bush, while others let it soar to 30 feet or more. Those who prefer a classic tree shape can choose a single-trunk variant, while people who like a denser look can select a multi-stem style. Whatever its height and branch arrangement, this tree's crown tends to spread out into a horizontal, oval shape with densely packed leaves and branches.
From $29.99
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Pink Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle

The Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle is a deciduous shrub or small tree with vibrant, pink crepe-paper-like flowers and smooth, cinnamon-colored bark. It is often used for ornamental landscaping. Its captivating beauty and versatile characteristics offer many advantages when incorporated into landscaping endeavors. Its unique attributes provide a harmonious blend of aesthetic, ecological, and practical benefits, making it a cherished choice among landscape designers and homeowners. Thanks to its large, colorful blooms and standout look, the pink crepe myrtle is a beautiful addition to any yard. This deciduous tree grows well in various conditions, making it well-suited for enhancing aesthetics in many yards. If you plant this distinctive tree in your yard, you can enjoy several exciting benefits. What are these benefits? Vibrant Colors Of The Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Its long-lasting blooms cover most of the surface area of the leafy branches, which can grow up to 15 feet in diameter, making this colorful tree a focal point in the yard. The flowers' colors range from baby rose to fuchsia, carnation, and hot and rosy shades. In addition, the slightly rounded leaves are deep green, and the bark has a pinkish-gray hue. The bark is generally smooth and mottled, which adds to its fascinating look. Enhance Pollination With The  Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Many types of plants rely on pollinating insects and birds. The flowers on this tree have a strong fragrance. In addition, the bark emits sap, and these two elements combine to attract up to 30 pollinator species to the yard. Pollinators are beneficial insects and birds that have a solid impact on the overall health of your yard’s small ecosystem. Many birds and insects drawn to these trees are beneficial in other ways. For example, these bugs and birds often feast on the various damaging pests in a yard. By managing the population of unwanted pests, your plants can enjoy an overall healthier environment. More Privacy Is Available With Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Many homes are built close to each other, allowing direct views from the windows and porches of one house to those of another. This lack of privacy erodes the comfortable living experience in the home. Pink Crepe Myrtle trees often grow up to 20 feet tall and have dense, bushy branches. When the tree is in full bloom, it may be impossible to see through the flowers and branches. Because the tree grows well above the height of a privacy fence, privacy reaches a new level.
From $34.99
From $34.99
Twilight Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Twilight Crepe Myrtle

Twilight Crepe Myrtle, or Lagerstroemia indica, is known for its stunning dark purple foliage and vibrant pink to lavender flowers, which add a striking contrast to garden landscapes. It is a popular choice in landscaping due to its numerous benefits and aesthetic appeal. This deciduous shrub, renowned for its stunning flowers and vibrant foliage, brings a range of advantages to outdoor spaces.   Twilight Crepe Myrtle, also known as Lagerstroemia indica, is a tree with gorgeous purple flowers. Its distinctive trunk makes it easy to use as a living fence for your yard. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Is A Perfect Size The highlight of this 20-foot-tall tree is its flowers. They stay in bloom for longer than most other trees, which makes them a favorite of those who adore floral accents in their yard. They have crimped petals, and each panicle grows to approximately 3 1/2 inches. Each flower is attached to five others, thereby creating six parts. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Blooms For Months The flowers typically last from July through September. After which, brown dehiscent fruits appear in a six-valved capsule. Once a capsule falls to the ground, it splits open to help more trees grow. The bark of these trees exfoliates to reveal multiple shades of gray and brown. When you combine this with the rarity of how long they bloom, you have an eye-catching tree that draws people's attention. The leaves can grow in three patterns: whorls, alternate or opposite. Either way, they grow in groups of three. In autumn, the leaves will change to a stunningly brilliant red. By then, the flowers are gone, leaving only the fall leaves to brighten your yard. Fortunately, the entire process starts again in the spring, so you'll enjoy gorgeous purple or red colors throughout most of the year. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Creates A Homes for Birds  Another good reason you'll want to consider planting them is that they provide the perfect natural habitat for wrens and songbirds. Therefore, if you've ever wanted to experience a nest up close, this tree will make your wish come true. Twilight Crepe Myrtle also provides any lawn with a lot of vertical interest, which gives it fantastic curb appeal. The best presentation is typically in a triangular pattern with three trees, which takes advantage of the tree's rather unusual shape. Rather than having one simple trunk, they spread out into many branches from a low-lying, close to the ground level, creating even more visual appeal.
From $29.99
From $29.99
Muskogee Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle is a striking deciduous shrub or small tree with vibrant lavender-pink flowers and smooth, cinnamon-colored bark. It adds a burst of color and elegance to gardens and landscapes. This famous ornamental tree offers many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. With its stunning visual appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance, it has become a favored choice for many landscapers and homeowners alike.  Muskogee Crepe Myrtle Is A Great Choice For Homeowners  The Muskogee Crepe Myrtle is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to add interest, texture, and color to their landscape. Each tree has smooth, brown stems that fan out into a vase shape. The branches contain even rows of oval leaves in a beautiful deep green shade. These attractive colors and textures become even more exciting when this tree blooms with lavender flowers. Its vibrant look will surely draw the eye wherever you plant this beautiful tree. Starting in spring, these trees begin to produce cone-shaped bunches of flowers. Each flower cluster consists of several small, individual, pinkish-purple petals with a crinkled appearance similar to tissue paper. After going through their flowering season, these trees produce clumps of berries that add even more visual interest to the tree. Clumps of small, round berries on the end of each branch gradually transform from shiny, green berries to brown, serrated seed pods. This tree's flowering and berry-producing seasons can last several months because it produces new flowers regularly. Explore the Many Ways to Garden With Muskogee Crepe Myrtle These trees have endless purposes throughout the landscape. A tidy row of them can be a lovely way to border a walkway or fill in narrow strips of land. Standalone versions can be a focal point on a lawn and look great, bordered with other flowers or decorative grasses. You can even use clusters of these trees to create a hedge that provides privacy and shade. The Versatile and Appealing Shape of Muskogee Crepe Myrtle Muskogee Crepe Myrtle comes in many shapes and sizes. Some landscapers keep it as a compact bush, while others let it soar to 30 feet or more. Those who prefer a classic tree shape can choose a single-trunk variant, while people who like a denser look can select a multi-stem style. Whatever its height and branch arrangement, this tree's crown tends to spread out into a horizontal, oval shape with densely packed leaves and branches.
From $29.99
From $29.99
Pink Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle

The Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle is a deciduous shrub or small tree with vibrant, pink crepe-paper-like flowers and smooth, cinnamon-colored bark. It is often used for ornamental landscaping. Its captivating beauty and versatile characteristics offer many advantages when incorporated into landscaping endeavors. Its unique attributes provide a harmonious blend of aesthetic, ecological, and practical benefits, making it a cherished choice among landscape designers and homeowners. Thanks to its large, colorful blooms and standout look, the pink crepe myrtle is a beautiful addition to any yard. This deciduous tree grows well in various conditions, making it well-suited for enhancing aesthetics in many yards. If you plant this distinctive tree in your yard, you can enjoy several exciting benefits. What are these benefits? Vibrant Colors Of The Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Its long-lasting blooms cover most of the surface area of the leafy branches, which can grow up to 15 feet in diameter, making this colorful tree a focal point in the yard. The flowers' colors range from baby rose to fuchsia, carnation, and hot and rosy shades. In addition, the slightly rounded leaves are deep green, and the bark has a pinkish-gray hue. The bark is generally smooth and mottled, which adds to its fascinating look. Enhance Pollination With The  Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Many types of plants rely on pollinating insects and birds. The flowers on this tree have a strong fragrance. In addition, the bark emits sap, and these two elements combine to attract up to 30 pollinator species to the yard. Pollinators are beneficial insects and birds that have a solid impact on the overall health of your yard’s small ecosystem. Many birds and insects drawn to these trees are beneficial in other ways. For example, these bugs and birds often feast on the various damaging pests in a yard. By managing the population of unwanted pests, your plants can enjoy an overall healthier environment. More Privacy Is Available With Maimi Pink Crepe Myrtle Many homes are built close to each other, allowing direct views from the windows and porches of one house to those of another. This lack of privacy erodes the comfortable living experience in the home. Pink Crepe Myrtle trees often grow up to 20 feet tall and have dense, bushy branches. When the tree is in full bloom, it may be impossible to see through the flowers and branches. Because the tree grows well above the height of a privacy fence, privacy reaches a new level.
From $34.99
From $34.99
Twilight Crepe Myrtle - TN Nursery

Twilight Crepe Myrtle

Twilight Crepe Myrtle, or Lagerstroemia indica, is known for its stunning dark purple foliage and vibrant pink to lavender flowers, which add a striking contrast to garden landscapes. It is a popular choice in landscaping due to its numerous benefits and aesthetic appeal. This deciduous shrub, renowned for its stunning flowers and vibrant foliage, brings a range of advantages to outdoor spaces.   Twilight Crepe Myrtle, also known as Lagerstroemia indica, is a tree with gorgeous purple flowers. Its distinctive trunk makes it easy to use as a living fence for your yard. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Is A Perfect Size The highlight of this 20-foot-tall tree is its flowers. They stay in bloom for longer than most other trees, which makes them a favorite of those who adore floral accents in their yard. They have crimped petals, and each panicle grows to approximately 3 1/2 inches. Each flower is attached to five others, thereby creating six parts. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Blooms For Months The flowers typically last from July through September. After which, brown dehiscent fruits appear in a six-valved capsule. Once a capsule falls to the ground, it splits open to help more trees grow. The bark of these trees exfoliates to reveal multiple shades of gray and brown. When you combine this with the rarity of how long they bloom, you have an eye-catching tree that draws people's attention. The leaves can grow in three patterns: whorls, alternate or opposite. Either way, they grow in groups of three. In autumn, the leaves will change to a stunningly brilliant red. By then, the flowers are gone, leaving only the fall leaves to brighten your yard. Fortunately, the entire process starts again in the spring, so you'll enjoy gorgeous purple or red colors throughout most of the year. Twilight Crepe Myrtle Creates A Homes for Birds  Another good reason you'll want to consider planting them is that they provide the perfect natural habitat for wrens and songbirds. Therefore, if you've ever wanted to experience a nest up close, this tree will make your wish come true. Twilight Crepe Myrtle also provides any lawn with a lot of vertical interest, which gives it fantastic curb appeal. The best presentation is typically in a triangular pattern with three trees, which takes advantage of the tree's rather unusual shape. Rather than having one simple trunk, they spread out into many branches from a low-lying, close to the ground level, creating even more visual appeal.
From $29.99
From $29.99
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