Crepe Myrtle Shrubs - Summer's Longest Blooming Shrub
Crepe Myrtle is a flowering tree or shrub prized for its long summer blooms, colorful bark, and graceful form. It’s often grown as an ornamental in landscapes because it offers vibrant flowers and attractive fall foliage.
These flowering plants are among the most cherished trees and shrubs in American landscapes, and at TN Nursery, we are proud to offer them in a variety of colors: white, pink, purple, and red. This plant starts growing when every other flowering tree stops blooming in July. It has a long blooming cycle, lasting up to 8 weeks.
Known for their long-lasting summer blooms, these versatile plants bring vibrant color to gardens, yards, and public spaces during the hottest months when many other plants have stopped flowering.
Their show-stopping clusters of blossoms brighten outdoor areas and attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, making them a beautiful and ecologically valuable choice for homeowners.
These Shrubs are highly adaptable and low-maintenance
Crepe Myrtle is hardy and grows well in various soils, tolerates drought once established, and performs exceptionally well in full sun. Many gardeners choose these for their fast growth and ability to provide shade and ornamental appeal quickly.
Their graceful, vase-shaped form pairs beautifully with their multi-season interest. After the summer flowers fade, they display rich autumn foliage in shades of orange, red, and yellow, extending their beauty well into fall.
Crepe Myrtle Shrubs Have Beautiful Bark
Even in winter, their smooth, exfoliating bark adds a striking architectural element to the landscape. Crepe myrtles, which come in different sizes and growth habits, can be used as small ornamental trees, privacy borders, or stunning flowering hedges.
Crepe Myrtle Shrubs FAQ
How fast do crepe myrtle shrubs grow?
They grow at a moderate to fast rate, especially once established. In warm climates, they often add noticeable height and width each season.
Do crepe myrtles prefer full sun or partial shade?
They perform best in full sun. Strong sunlight encourages tighter branching, healthier foliage, and longer, more vibrant bloom cycles.
How often should I water a crepe myrtle shrub?
Keep the roots evenly moist during the first season. After they mature, ones become drought-tolerant and typically only require watering during extended dry periods.
When is the best time to prune crepe myrtle shrubs?
Late winter is ideal. Pruning during dormancy shapes the plant, removes weak wood, and encourages a stronger flush of new growth and blooms in spring.
What type of soil is best for crepe myrtles?
They adapt well to most well-draining soils. Slightly acidic soil is ideal, but they thrive in clay, sandy, or loamy beds as long as drainage is good.
Why is my crepe myrtle not blooming?
Insufficient sunlight, over-pruning, or nutrient imbalance are the most common issues. Ensuring full sun and avoiding overly aggressive pruning usually restores blooming.
Are crepe myrtle shrubs deer-resistant?
Yes. Deer generally avoid them, though they may occasionally sample tender new growth.
How tall do crepe myrtle shrubs get?
Shrub-form crepe myrtles normally reach 3–12 feet tall depending on the variety. Dwarf and semi-dwarf selections stay compact for smaller landscapes.
Can crepe myrtles survive cold winters?
Many varieties are cold-hardy. In areas with harsh winters, adding mulch around the base helps insulate the roots and protect new growth.
Do crepe myrtles attract pollinators?
Yes, their bright blooms draw bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them a beautiful addition to pollinator gardens.
Customer Reviews
Where do crepe myrtles grow best?
Crepe myrtles grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. They thrive in warm, humid climates and are especially popular in USDA zones 7–10. These plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to. For best results, plant them in a sunny, open area with good air circulation.
Do crepe myrtles need a lot of water?
No, Crepe myrtles don’t need excessive water once established. During the first growing season, they should be watered regularly to help roots develop. After that, they become quite drought-tolerant, requiring water only during extended periods of dryness. It’s best to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions.
Do crepe myrtle lose leaves in winter?
Yes, crepe myrtles are deciduous plants, meaning they naturally lose their leaves in winter. As temperatures drop, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, or red before falling. This process helps the plant conserve energy during dormancy. The bare branches are normal and will leaf out again in spring. Even without leaves, their smooth, mottled bark adds beauty to the winter landscape.
Exposure
Crepe Myrtle thrives in full sun
Height at Maturity
Under 25 Feet
Usage
Landscaping
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
UPS
Planting Zones
7-10
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees
Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.
