The South's love affair with crepe myrtles is undeniable. In some areas, you see them on practically every street--and for good reason. Few plants can match their combination of spectacular summer flowers, colorful autumn foliage, and handsome sculptural trunks. If you're thinking of adding one or more crepe myrtles to your landscape this season, the following tips will help you make a good decision.

Seeing a crepe myrtle in its full summer splendor sends some of us running to the garden shop to buy a plant the same color. But don't buy impulsively. Pay attention to the plant's tag. Make sure that it is not only the exact color that you want, but also the right size and look you hope to achieve.

Crepe myrtles range in size from dwarf selections that grow less than 3 feet tall to several that reach upwards of 30 feet. Knowing the mature height of a plant before you buy it and planting the proper size for the site will save you much heartache and backache in the future. If you're in the Upper South, you should also look for selections that are extra cold-hardy.

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