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Crape Myrtle
Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia indica L.
Family: Lythraceae

Show Larger Picture Crape Myrtle 'Watermelon Red' at Berridge Nurseries in Phoenix

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 7-14, 18-21, 25-31 USDA: 7-10 Frost Tolerance: Hardy in Phoenix Heat Tolerance: Tolerates the low deserts if the irrigation schedule fits its needs Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: China, Korea Growth Habits: Deciduous, upright shrub or tree, usually 3 to 30 feet tall (9 m) depending on the variety, although large specimens can be much larger; dark green leaves, 1 to 2 inches long (2.5-5 cm) Watering Needs: Moderate water Propagation: Stem cuttings

Cultural Practices:
Feed with a general purpose fertilizer in February-March before the new growth starts. The Crape Myrtle are one of the favorite plants for aphids. They need to be checked regularly. Aphid infestations can be controlled with insecticide soap.

Blooming Habits:
The Crape Myrtle has showy red, white, pink, or purple flowers, 0.6 to 2 inches in diameter (1.5-5.0 cm), in long tapered clusters, 5 to 16 inches long or more (12-40 cm), with 25 to 500 flowers. The Crape Myrtle blooms all the summer.