Crape Myrtle — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–28 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 730–1825 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 152.4–609.6 |
| Mature height (cm) | 91.4–914.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 121.9–457.2 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 6–10 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Cutting |
Growing directions
Plant in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun; crape myrtle is arguably the most important ornamental tree of the Gulf Coast, the mid-South, and California, producing dramatic clusters (panicles) of crepe-textured flowers in white, pink, red, lavender, or purple from July through September — among the longest bloom periods of any flowering tree — on plants that range from 3-foot dwarf shrubs to 30-foot trees depending on selection. The modern hybrid varieties (L. indica x L. fauriei) also offer spectacular exfoliating bark in cinnamon, gray, and russet that is ornamental year-round, plus brilliant orange-red fall color. These hybrids are also substantially more mildew-resistant than pure L. indica. Sizes range from true dwarf cultivars ('Petite Embers,' 'Tonto') to large trees ('Natchez,' 'Muskogee'). All are extremely heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant, and long-lived in zones 7–9. Spring pruning should be limited to removing dead wood and crossing branches — severe topping destroys the natural form permanently.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0