Science · High-Value Shrubs
Crape Myrtle
Summer-flowering ornamental with dwarf to tree-size cultivars; hybrid identity influences mildew resistance and mature size.
Lagerstroemia indica and hybrids, often with L. fauriei · Deciduous flowering shrub or small tree
Profile
- Light
- Full sun for best flowering
- Bloom
- Flowers on current-season growth
- Pruning
- Avoid topping; select cultivar to fit the site and remove only needed branches
- Cultivars
- Natchez is a large white-flowering hybrid, not a dwarf; verify labels before planting
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; depends on soil texture
- Salinity tolerance
- Not reliably characterized for this catalog label; avoid saline irrigation and diagnose with soil/water testing.
- Drought tolerance
- Good once established; prolonged drought reduces flowering.
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Typical feeder-root zone for established landscape shrubs. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Deep spaced watering for establishment; irrigate during prolonged dry periods and avoid standing water.
Problems to watch
- Crape myrtle bark scale
- Powdery mildew on susceptible cultivars
- Cercospora leaf spot
Stress signs
- White felted bark insects and sooty mold
- White powder on shoots
- Spotted leaves with premature fall
Where you'll find it
- Summer-flowering specimen
- Small-tree streetscape with adequate rooting space
More high-value shrubs
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.