Description

General aspect and origins - Lagerstroemia indica is also known as crape myrtle, or sometimes crepe myrtle. It is a decidious tree that is native to Asia, and more precisely to China. In its origin area, it can reach up to 30 ft (10 m), but is smaller in cultivation. This ornamental tree is often grown for its massive clusters of pink, red, mauve or white flowers, that can last a few months.
Leaves - Crape myrtle has a decidious foliage, which is generally showy in autumn. Leaves are alternate and smooth.
Flowers - Flowers appear in summer, and last for a few months. They are borne in panicles and can be pink, purple, red and white.
Fruits - Fruits are small, spherical, dark and not edible. They split open when fully ripe, and reveal flattened small seeds.

Culture

Crape myrtle is a showy tree, with interesting flowers and leaves, but also with an ornamental exfoliating bark. This tree can withstand negative temperatures down to about 5°F. (-15°C)
Soil - This tree prefers a well-drained ground that remains moist in the growing season. However, it can withstand occasional droughts.

Propagation

Crape myrtle can be propagated by seeds, but to keep varieties specific features, propagation by cuttings is often prefered.