Lagerstroemia

Lagerstroemia indica Blanco1.207

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Crepe Myrtle

CrapeMyrtleLouisiana

Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crape myrtle or crepe myrtle, is a genus of around 50 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs and trees originating from the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and parts of Oceania. These plants are well-regarded for their colorful and long-lasting flowers, which appear throughout the summer and sometimes into autumn, making them popular in gardens and landscapes across the world, especially in temperate and subtropical regions.

Description

Lagerstroemia species can vary greatly in size, from small shrubs to large trees. They are most notable for their showy flowers, which are crinkled and have a paper-like texture, hence the common name "crape myrtle." The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, magenta, purple, and red. The leaves of Lagerstroemia are opposite, simple, and can turn to stunning shades of yellow, orange, or red in the autumn, adding to the plant's ornamental value. The bark on mature trees exfoliates to reveal a smooth, often multicolored underbark, which provides winter interest.

Cultivation

Lagerstroemia thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established but perform best with regular watering during prolonged dry periods. These plants are also adaptable to a variety of soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. Pruning is an important aspect of crape myrtle care, promoting a more attractive form and better flowering. However, it is crucial to avoid heavy pruning practices, often referred to as "crape murder," which can severely damage the plant and reduce its lifespan.

Species and Hybrids

Among the many species, Lagerstroemia indica and Lagerstroemia fauriei are two of the most widely cultivated. Lagerstroemia indica is known for its wide range of flower colors and compact size, making it suitable for small gardens and containers. Lagerstroemia fauriei, on the other hand, is prized for its resistance to powdery mildew, a common fungal disease that affects many crape myrtles, and its attractive, peeling bark.

Hybrids between these two species, known as Lagerstroemia × intermedia, combine the best traits of both, including disease resistance, a variety of flower colors, and improved cold hardiness. The introduction of these hybrids has significantly expanded the use of crape myrtles in landscapes.

Uses

Beyond their ornamental value, Lagerstroemia species have various uses. The wood of some species is hard and durable, making it suitable for construction and furniture. In traditional medicine, parts of the plant are used for their astringent and diuretic properties.

Conservation

While many species of Lagerstroemia are widely cultivated, some are considered rare or endangered in their natural habitats due to habitat loss and overcollection. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure these species do not become extinct.

See Also

• Ornamental plant
• Deciduous
• Shrub
• Tree