The crepe myrtle is a favorite of many southern gardeners. (Crepe myrtle is the preferred common name in the south). The draw for this plant is that is blooms at a time when most trees are not blooming. If the plant is healthy it will be covered with blooms that will last for months during the hottest part of the summer. This tree is resistant to damage by deer.

Crape myrtle is an upright deciduous tree or large shrub. Dark green leaves emerge bronze. White, pink, red, or purple flowers appear from summer to autumn. Peeling gray-and-brown bark is attractive.

Crepe myrtles will grow in almost any kind of soil sand, loam or clay. It is even possible to grow them in containers if they are watered and fertilized properly. They will grow in partial shade, however, the best flowering will occur on plants that receive more than 6 hours of direct sun. They range from having smooth to exfoliating bark. To promote flower bloom it is best to trim off seed pods.

Thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Grow against a warm, sunny wall where marginally hardy or overwinter in a greenhouse. Can be hard pruned if renovation is required.

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