Crape myrtle trees (Lagerstroemia), often spelled crepe myrtle or crapemyrtle, are the crown jewels of Southern gardens, celebrated for their vibrant summer blooms, striking fall foliage, and exfoliating bark that adds winter charm. Native to Southeast Asia, India, and Australia, these deciduous trees and shrubs from the Lythraceae family have become a staple in USDA zones 6–10, thriving in heat, drought, and diverse soils.
With over 50 species and countless cultivars, crape myrtles offer a spectrum of sizes—from dwarf shrubs under 3 feet to towering trees over 30 feet—and colors, including red, pink, purple, lavender, and white. Their long bloom time, often spanning June to September, and resistance to deer and many pests make them a low-maintenance choice for homeowners, landscapers, and urban planners.
Why Crape Myrtle Trees Are a Landscaping Must-Have
Crape myrtles are beloved for their versatility, offering year-round interest with minimal effort. Their crepe-paper-like flowers, clustered in panicles 6–18 inches long, create a dazzling summer display, while glossy green leaves turn red, orange, or yellow in fall. Winter reveals smooth, peeling bark in shades of cinnamon, taupe, or pink, adding sculptural elegance. Ranging from miniature shrubs to large shade trees, they suit every space—foundation plantings, privacy hedges, street trees, or container accents.
Modern hybrids, especially those from Lagerstroemia indica and L. fauriei crosses, boast improved powdery mildew resistance and cold hardiness, extending their range into zone 6. With proper selection, you can avoid “crape murder”—the harmful over-pruning that distorts their natural form.
Crape Myrtle Trees
1. Natchez (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Natchez’)
Natchez, a National Arboretum hybrid introduced in 1987, is a top-performing large crape myrtle, reaching 20–30 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide. Its pure white flowers bloom for up to 120 days, contrasting beautifully with cinnamon-brown exfoliating bark. The dark green leaves turn vibrant yellow, orange, and red in fall, making it a year-round stunner. Hardy in zones 6–9, it resists powdery mildew and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. Ideal as a shade tree or focal point, Natchez suits large yards or street plantings in Southern cities like Atlanta. Plant 20 feet apart for allees or privacy screens.
2. Muskogee (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Muskogee’)
Muskogee, introduced in 1978, is a vigorous hybrid growing 20–30 feet tall with a broad, vase-shaped canopy up to 25 feet wide. Its lavender-purple flowers bloom for months, paired with tan-to-brown bark and dark green leaves that shift to red-orange in fall. Hardy in zones 6–11, it’s mildew-resistant and heat-tolerant, making it a favorite in hot states like Texas and Florida. Use Muskogee as a shade tree, buffer, or multi-trunked specimen in large landscapes. Its long bloom time and drought tolerance make it low-maintenance for busy gardeners.
3. Tuscarora (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Tuscarora’)
Tuscarora, a 1978 National Arboretum release, grows 20–25 feet tall with a 15–20-foot spread, showcasing coral-pink flowers that deepen from red buds. Its dark green leaves turn red-orange in fall, and the light brown bark peels for winter interest. Hardy in zones 7–10, it resists leaf spot and powdery mildew, thriving in full sun. Plant Tuscarora as a specimen tree or hedge in medium to large yards, spacing 15 feet apart for air circulation. Its vibrant blooms make it a standout in coastal gardens or near patios.
4. Dynamite (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit II’)
Dynamite, introduced in 1997 by Dr. Carl Whitcomb, is a game-changer with true cherry-red flowers, growing 15–25 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide. Its upright form and dark green foliage, which turns orange-red in fall, complement the vibrant blooms. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s pest- and disease-resistant, blooming until frost. Use Dynamite as a focal point, driveway accent, or container plant in smaller yards. Its intense color and repeat-blooming habit make it a top choice for bold landscapes.
5. Red Rocket (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit IV’)
Red Rocket, another Whitcomb introduction, reaches 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, with fiery red flowers that rival Dynamite. Its fast growth (3–5 feet per year) and cold hardiness (zones 6–9) make it ideal for cooler regions. The glossy leaves turn scarlet in fall, and the gray bark peels to reveal pinkish tones. Plant Red Rocket as a specimen or hedge, ensuring full sun for maximum blooms. Its drought tolerance and low maintenance suit xeriscaping or urban gardens.
6. Acoma (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Acoma’)
Acoma, introduced in 1986, is a semi-dwarf hybrid growing 6–10 feet tall with a weeping, arching habit. Its white flowers bloom profusely, set against dark green leaves that turn purple-red in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant but may show leaf spot. Use Acoma in containers, shrub borders, or small gardens, spacing 8–10 feet apart. Its graceful form and compact size make it perfect for patios or foundation plantings in urban settings.
7. Catawba (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Catawba’)
Catawba, a 1967 hybrid, grows 10–15 feet tall and 8–12 feet wide, with rich violet-purple flowers that shine all summer. Its dark green foliage turns red-orange in fall, and the gray bark adds winter appeal. Hardy in zones 7–9, it’s moderately mildew-resistant and thrives in full sun. Plant Catawba as a hedge, screen, or accent in medium-sized yards, spacing 10 feet apart. Its vibrant color and dense growth make it ideal for privacy or driveway borders.
8. Sioux (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Sioux’)
Sioux, introduced in the 1950s and named Florida’s 1998 Plant of the Year, grows 12–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide. Its bright pink flowers and dark green leaves, which turn purple in fall, create a striking contrast. Hardy in zones 6–9, it resists mildew and leaf spot. Use Sioux as a small shade tree, hedge, or container plant, spacing 12 feet apart. Its compact size and vivid blooms suit suburban gardens or mixed borders.
9. Black Diamond Best Red (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Best Red’)
Black Diamond Best Red, a modern dwarf variety, grows 10–12 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, with near-black foliage that makes its red flowers pop. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s disease-resistant and blooms until frost. Ideal for containers, hedges, or small yards, it thrives in full sun and can be grown indoors in cooler zones. Plant Black Diamond Best Red along driveways or in meditation gardens for a high-end look. Its unique foliage adds drama to any landscape.
10. Pink Velour (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Pink Velour’)
Pink Velour, a semi-dwarf variety, reaches 6–10 feet tall and 5–8 feet wide, with vibrant pink flowers and burgundy-tinged leaves that turn orange in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and adaptable to containers or small spaces. Use Pink Velour as a border, accent, or patio plant, spacing 6–8 feet apart. Its deep color and compact form make it a favorite for urban gardens or coastal landscapes.
11. Arapaho (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Arapaho’)
Arapaho, a medium-sized hybrid, grows 20–30 feet tall with a 15–20-foot spread, featuring true red flowers and maroon-tinged leaves that turn red in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and drought-tolerant. Plant Arapaho as a street tree, shade provider, or specimen, spacing 20 feet apart. Its upright form and bold blooms make it ideal for large landscapes or privacy screens in suburban settings.
12. Tonto (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Tonto’)
Tonto, introduced in 1990, is a semi-dwarf growing 8–12 feet tall and wide, with magenta-pink flowers and dark green leaves that turn scarlet in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s highly mildew-resistant and award-winning. Use Tonto in shrub borders, containers, or as a low hedge, spacing 8–10 feet apart. Its compact size and vibrant blooms suit small yards or mixed plantings in temperate climates.
13. Pocomoke (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Pocomoke’)
Pocomoke, a dwarf cultivar, grows 2–5 feet tall and wide, with rose-pink flowers and glossy green leaves that turn red in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and perfect for containers, groundcovers, or small borders. Plant Pocomoke along walkways or in mulched beds, spacing 4–6 feet apart. Its petite size and long bloom time make it a go-to for urban balconies or courtyard gardens.
14. Queen’s Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia speciosa)
Queen’s Crape Myrtle, native to India, is a tropical giant growing 30–60 feet tall with a 20–30-foot spread, showcasing rosy-mauve or lavender flowers in large clusters. Its evergreen leaves turn red in fall, and the white bark adds elegance. Hardy in zones 9–11, it suits Florida, Hawaii, or coastal California. Use as a park tree or avenue planting, spacing 30 feet apart. Its massive size and tender nature make it a bold choice for frost-free landscapes.
15. Biloxi (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Biloxi’)
Biloxi, a National Arboretum hybrid introduced in 1978, is a robust tree growing 20–30 feet tall with a 15–20-foot spread. Its pale pink flowers bloom profusely for up to 100 days, complemented by dark green leaves that turn yellow-orange in fall and mottled, tan bark. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s highly mildew-resistant and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. Use Biloxi as a shade tree, street planting, or multi-trunked specimen in large yards, spacing 20 feet apart. Its subtle blooms and vigorous growth make it ideal for expansive landscapes in states like Mississippi or Georgia.
16. Ebony Flame (Lagerstroemia ‘Ebony Flame’)
Ebony Flame, a Black Diamond series dwarf, grows 8–12 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, with near-black foliage that accentuates its vivid red flowers. Hardy in zones 6–9, it resists powdery mildew and blooms until frost, making it a standout in small spaces. Plant Ebony Flame in containers, borders, or as a low hedge, spacing 6–8 feet apart. Its dramatic contrast suits modern gardens, urban patios, or mixed beds with white perennials like shasta daisies. This variety is perfect for gardeners seeking bold color and compact form.
17. Zuni (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Zuni’)
Zuni, a semi-dwarf hybrid from 1967, reaches 9–12 feet tall and wide, with medium lavender-purple flowers and dark green leaves that turn red-orange in fall. Its gray-brown bark peels to reveal pink undertones. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and adaptable to small yards or containers. Use Zuni as a shrub border, foundation planting, or accent, spacing 8–10 feet apart. Its manageable size and vibrant blooms make it a favorite for suburban gardens or coastal landscapes in zones like South Carolina.
18. Miami (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Miami’)
Miami, introduced in 1978, grows 20–25 feet tall with a 15–20-foot spread, showcasing deep pink flowers with a coral hue. Its dark green foliage turns orange-red in fall, and the tan bark adds winter interest. Hardy in zones 7–10, it resists mildew and thrives in full sun. Plant Miami as a shade tree, privacy screen, or specimen, spacing 15–20 feet apart. Its tropical vibe and long bloom time make it ideal for Florida or Gulf Coast landscapes, enhancing driveways or poolside areas.
19. Rhapsody in Pink (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Rhapsody in Pink’)
Rhapsody in Pink, a mid-sized cultivar, grows 10–15 feet tall and 8–12 feet wide, with soft pink flowers and burgundy-tinged new growth that matures to dark green. Its fall foliage shifts to orange, and the bark peels to a smooth gray. Hardy in zones 7–9, it’s disease-resistant and blooms generously. Use Rhapsody in Pink as a hedge, accent, or container plant, spacing 10 feet apart. Its elegant blooms and colorful foliage suit cottage gardens or mixed borders in temperate climates.
20. Centennial Spirit (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Centennial Spirit’)
Centennial Spirit, a compact tree, reaches 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, with bold red flowers and glossy green leaves that turn scarlet in fall. Hardy in zones 7–9, it resists mildew and tolerates heat, making it a standout in Southern summers. Plant Centennial Spirit as a specimen, driveway accent, or small shade tree, spacing 12–15 feet apart. Its fiery blooms and upright form make it perfect for urban yards or Mediterranean-style landscapes in states like Louisiana.
21. Hopi (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Hopi’)
Hopi, a semi-dwarf hybrid from 1967, grows 7–10 feet tall and wide, with light pink flowers and dark green leaves that turn red in fall. Its gray bark peels to reveal pinkish tones. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s highly mildew-resistant and suits small spaces. Use Hopi in containers, shrub borders, or as a low hedge, spacing 8–10 feet apart. Its delicate color and compact size make it ideal for patios, courtyards, or foundation plantings in cooler zones like Virginia.
22. Black Diamond Pure White (Lagerstroemia ‘Pure White’)
Black Diamond Pure White, a dwarf variety, grows 10–12 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, with crisp white flowers against near-black foliage. Hardy in zones 6–9, it resists disease and blooms until frost, thriving in full sun. Plant Black Diamond Pure White in containers, borders, or as a focal point, spacing 6–8 feet apart. Its striking contrast suits modern or minimalist gardens, adding elegance to urban balconies or mixed beds with colorful annuals.
23. Comanche (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Comanche’)
Comanche, introduced in 1978, grows 15–20 feet tall and 12–15 feet wide, with coral-pink flowers and dark green leaves that turn red-orange in fall. Its mottled bark adds winter appeal. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and heat-tolerant. Use Comanche as a small shade tree, hedge, or specimen, spacing 12–15 feet apart. Its vibrant blooms and medium size make it a great fit for suburban yards or coastal gardens in zones like North Carolina.
24. Delta Jazz (Lagerstroemia ‘Delta Jazz’)
Delta Jazz, a dwarf cultivar, grows 6–8 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide, with vivid pink flowers and bronze-to-black foliage that shifts to green, turning red in fall. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s disease-resistant and ideal for small spaces. Plant Delta Jazz in containers, borders, or as a low hedge, spacing 5–6 feet apart. Its unique foliage and compact form make it perfect for urban gardens, patios, or mixed plantings with lavender or salvia.
25. Osage (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Osage’)
Osage, a National Arboretum hybrid, grows 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, with clear pink flowers and glossy green leaves that turn red in fall. Its chestnut-brown bark is a winter highlight. Hardy in zones 6–9, it resists mildew and thrives in full sun. Use Osage as a small shade tree, screen, or multi-trunked specimen, spacing 12–15 feet apart. Its graceful form suits large yards or park settings in temperate regions like Tennessee.
26. Early Bird Purple (Lagerstroemia ‘Early Bird Purple’)
Early Bird Purple, a dwarf variety, grows 5–8 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide, with vibrant purple flowers starting as early as May. Its green foliage turns orange-red in fall. Hardy in zones 7–9, it’s mildew-resistant and reblooms if deadheaded. Plant Early Bird Purple in containers, borders, or as a groundcover, spacing 5–6 feet apart. Its early and extended bloom time makes it ideal for small gardens or coastal landscapes in zones like Alabama.
27. Lipan (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Lipan’)
Lipan, introduced in 1978, is a medium-sized hybrid growing 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, with lavender flowers and dark green leaves that turn red in fall. Its beige bark peels to reveal pink tones. Hardy in zones 6–9, it’s mildew-resistant and heat-tolerant. Use Lipan as a small shade tree, hedge, or specimen, spacing 12–15 feet apart. Its soft color and upright form suit suburban yards or mixed borders in zones like Arkansas.
28. Twilight Magic (Lagerstroemia ‘Twilight Magic’)
Twilight Magic, a mid-sized cultivar, grows 10–15 feet tall and 8–12 feet wide, with deep purple flowers and burgundy-tinged foliage that shifts to green, turning orange in fall. Hardy in zones 7–9, it resists disease and blooms generously. Plant Twilight Magic as a hedge, accent, or container plant, spacing 8–10 feet apart. Its rich color and compact form make it a favorite for modern gardens or urban landscapes in zones like South Florida.
Growing Crape Myrtle Trees: Essential Tips
Plant crape myrtles in spring or fall in full sun (6+ hours daily) with well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, keeping the top slightly above ground level. Water deeply 2–3 times weekly for the first 2–3 months, then reduce to once weekly once established. Fertilize in spring with a slow-release, balanced formula (10-10-10). Prune lightly in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches, avoiding “crape murder” to preserve natural form. Monitor for aphids, bark scale, or powdery mildew, using insecticidal soap or fungicides as needed. Mulch 2–3 inches deep, keeping it away from the trunk, to retain moisture and deter weeds.
Design Ideas for Crape Myrtle Landscapes
Crape myrtles shine in diverse settings. Plant Natchez or Muskogee as shade trees in large yards, paired with low-growing junipers for contrast. Use Acoma or Pocomoke in containers on patios, surrounded by colorful annuals like petunias. Create a vibrant hedge with Catawba or Tonto, spacing 8–10 feet apart, alongside boxwoods for structure. Line driveways with Dynamite or Red Rocket for bold color, underplanted with liriope. Grow Black Diamond Best Red in mixed borders with lavender for a dramatic effect. These designs maximize color, texture, and functionality, attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds while enhancing curb appeal.
Health and Environmental Benefits
Crape myrtles are eco-friendly, providing shade to reduce urban heat and sequestering carbon. Their flowers support pollinators, and seedpods feed birds like finches, though they’re not a primary native food source. Drought tolerance conserves water, and their adaptability to poor soils reduces fertilizer needs. The wood of some species, like L. calyculata, is used for furniture in Asia, but in landscaping, their value lies in aesthetics and resilience. However, over-pruning increases susceptibility to pests like aphids, which attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, aiding pest control in nearby crops.
Challenges and Conservation
Crape myrtles face powdery mildew, bark scale, and aphid issues, though modern cultivars like Natchez and Tonto resist many diseases. Over-pruning, or “crape murder,” weakens trees, leading to suckering and reduced blooms. In some regions, like Florida, crape myrtles can seed aggressively, requiring local checks for invasiveness. Promote healthy growth by selecting size-appropriate varieties and pruning minimally. Conservation efforts focus on breeding cold-hardy, disease-resistant hybrids to expand their range while maintaining ecological balance.