Lagerstroemia aka Crepe Myrtle

Taxonomy

Genus Lagerstroemia Family Lythraceae Order Myrtales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crape myrtle or crepe myrtle, is a genus of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Indian subcontinent, southeast Asia, northern Australia, and other parts of Oceania. These beautiful flowering trees, belonging to the family Lythraceae, are cultivated in warmer climates around the world for their ornamental value. The genus is named after Magnus von Lagerström, a Swedish merchant who supplied plants to Carl Linnaeus. Crape myrtle trees are small, spreading, and can reach a height of 6 meters. They have peeling grey and brown bark, glossy dark green leaves, and display vibrant autumn colors. In summer, they produce large clusters of white flowers, although the color may vary depending on the tree. The bark is thin and smooth, shedding each year, while the leaves also shed in winter after a spectacular display of yellow, orange, and red hues. The flowers have crimped petals and can be white, pink, mauve, purple, or carmine. After flowering, the trees develop brown fruits with six capsules that eventually split open. Overall, Lagerstroemia crape myrtles are cherished for their attractive appearance and are commonly planted both privately and commercially.

Common names

Crepe Myrtle

How to care for Crepe Myrtle

Difficulty

Crepe Myrtle is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Lighting

Crepe Myrtle requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Crepe Myrtle will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

More info:
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More Species in Lagerstroemia Genus

Lagerstroemia speciosa Queen's Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia Crepe Myrtle

Lagerstroemia subcostata Lagerstroemia Subcostata