Crepe Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica

Crepe Myrtle is the queen of Southern summer — massive clusters of ruffled flowers in every shade of pink, red, purple, and white, blooming for months. The smooth, mottled bark provides stunning winter interest, and the fall foliage rivals any maple. Drought-tolerant, heat-loving, and practically indestructible once established.

Hardiness Zones

6-10

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Maintenance

Low

Mature Size

10-30 ft H × 10-20 ft W

Growth Rate

Fast

Bloom Season

Summer - Fall

Bloom Color

Pink, Red, Purple, White, Lavender

Care Guide

Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours). Any well-drained soil works. Water during extended drought. DO NOT 'crepe murder' — never top the tree. Instead, remove crossing branches, suckers, and spent flower clusters. Choose the right size for your space. Treat powdery mildew with fungicide if needed.

Landscape Uses

Street treesSpecimen treesFoundation plantingsScreeningMulti-trunk accent

Best Growing Regions

southeastsouthwest

Great Companion Plants

Knockout Roses

Daylilies

LantanaLantana camara

Ornamental Grasses

SalviaSalvia nemorosa

See Crepe Myrtle in Your Yard

Upload a photo and our AI will show you exactly how crepe myrtle would look integrated into your landscape — with a full plant list and budget breakdown.

Design My Yard — Free Preview

Preview free · $12.99 to download · 30-day guarantee