How to grow a crape myrtle
Find out how to grow and care for crape myrtle, in our guide.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flowers | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Crape myrtle (also known as crepe myrtle), which has the botanical name Lagerstroemia indica, is a large deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to parts of Asia, including China and the Himalayas. The name crape myrtle is likely to be due to the resemblance the crinkly flowers have to crepe paper. These are held in loose clusters in late summer on flowerheads that can be up to 20cm long, in shades including white, pink, red and purple. In autumn the leaves take on vibrant orange and red shades before falling, while winter interest comes from the tree's peeling bark.
Crape myrtle used to be thought of as tender, but the RHS has trialled growing them outdoors at Wisley and concluded that in warm locations, such as the south east of England, crape myrtle can be grown outdoors in open locations, with many varieties hardy down to -5 or -10ºC. In colder areas, crape myrtles can be grown against a south-facing wall to protect them from the elements. To keep them thriving and flowering well, crape myrtles need to be planted in a place where they will get summer heat. In the right place, these shrubs are a low-maintenance plant as they are tolerant of drought. In parts of the UK where temperatures regularly drop below -5ºC, it's best to grow crape myrtles in containers and overwinter them in a conservatory or greenhouse.
How to grow crape myrtle
Grow crape myrtle in a warm spot, where it will get lots of sun throughout the day to encourage good growth and flowering. It will thrive in fertile, well-drained soil in a sheltered location.
Where to grow crape myrtle
The best location for a crape myrtle is in full sun, in a west- or south-facing border. Avoid exposed or northerly sites.
How to plant crape myrtle
Choose a site with well-drained soil and dig a hole that is twice as wide as the plant's rootball. It should be deep enough to fit the plant so that the top of the rootball sits level with the ground. Water the shrub well before planting. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and place in the hole. Backfill with soil and firm in well.
How to care for crape myrtle
Water newly planted shrubs and trees regularly, especially during summer. Crape myrtles are drought tolerant once established but will need time to put down roots. Feed crape myrtle regularly during the growing season, especially if it is growing in a container.
How to prune crape myrtle
Crape myrtles are in pruning group one, which means that they need little or no pruning. If lightly pruning to shape shrubs, the best time to do this is in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Pests and diseases
Crape myrtle is not prone to many pests and diseases. It may suffer from powdery mildew if the summer weather is particularly wet and this can affect the flower buds, and subsequent flower displays.
Advice on buying crape myrtle
- Crape myrtle can be grown as a shrub, but is also available to buy as a standard tree
- Crape myrtle is also sold under the name crepe myrtle
- Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting
Where to buy crape myrtle
Types of crape myrtle to grow
Lagerstroemia indica 'Rhapsody' is a hardy variety with showstopping pink flowers from June to September. Height x Spread: 4m x 3m
Lagerstroemia indica 'Berry Dazzle' is a rounded compact bush that is perfect for a pot, with bright pink flowers. H x S: 1.2m x 1m
Lagerstroemia indica 'Nivea' is a white-flowered variety that has a light scent. Its flowering display is long lasting, from June through to September. H x S: 3m x 2m
Frequently asked questions
How big does a crape myrtle grow?
The species, Lagerstroemia indica, can grow up to 8m tall over 20 years, but many of its cultivars are more compact, with multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees growing to three or four metres tall. There are also dwarf forms available, such as 'Berry Dazzle', which grows to 1.2m and ideal for a pot.
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