Red Crepe Myrtle - Lagerstroemia indica

Red Crepe Myrtle is a choice ornamental and deciduous tree with gorgeous exfoliating bark and brilliant red blooms that flower in the summer through early fall.

Plant Details - Red Crepe Myrtle

Family: Lythraceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun

Water Needs: Moist

Height:  10 - 20 ft.

Spread:  10 – 15 ft.

Growth Rate: Fast

Bloom Time: Summer

Flower Color: Red

Wildlife Value: Attracts bees, butterflies, birds

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Red Crepe Myrtle

Red Crepe Myrtle is an excellent option to create a captivating view. It is sought after often for its characteristic bold flowers and bark. Native to Asia, it has naturalized and has grown to be synonymous with Southern gardening.

Great option for adding to your yard or garden at mid or back of the border. Use as a privacy hedge or living fence.

This tree grows best and blooms most vigorously in a location with full sun, needing at least six hours. Avoid planting it in areas with partial sun.

Flowers will bloom on new wood. Prune in winter to avoid accidentally chopping off your chance of flowers. Make sure to prune off any damaged, diseased, or rubbing branches.

Plant this tree in well draining soil. This tree will not tolerate sitting in a high water table. You can plant this tree in loamy or sandy soil.

Water thoroughly when first planted. Water often at the base of the tree, especially during drought, to encourage its blooms.

This tree is susceptible to fungal issues, so watch for signs of powdery mildew, sooty mold, and leaf spot. Don’t get caught unprepared – have an action plan ready! You can make sure to water low, avoiding the foliage, and water early in the morning to help actively prevent moisture related fungal issues.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Red Crepe Myrtle will attract many kinds of pollinators with its nectar rich flowers. Bees and butterflies will love to visit this tree! This tree will also attract hummingbirds to your garden.

Its peeling bark is completely natural and one of the reasons it is a beloved tree for the landscape.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom/Foliage Color

Red

Height at Maturity

Under 25 Feet

Care

Red Rooster Crepe Myrtle thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering. Trim in winter or spring to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Fertilize annually to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Plant Reproduction

Red Crepe Myrtle spreads via seeds and root suckers.

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.

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