Lagerstroemia indica 'Cherry Mocha'
shrub

Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Cherry Mocha'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Average

Humidity

Tolerates high humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Lagerstroemia indica is a species of deciduous shrubs or small trees known for a long summer bloom of showy flowers, attractive exfoliating bark, and good fall color. They are typically multi-stemmed with a vase-shaped habit. A compact, dwarf cultivar featuring stunning cherry-red flowers that contrast dramatically with its deep maroon to nearly black foliage. The dark foliage holds its color from spring until frost. It has a dense, mounded habit and good disease resistance.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesStriking pink flowers and exfoliating bark create year-round interest.
Practical UsesProvides shade and privacy in garden settings.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with abundant nectar in summer.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
  3. Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead wood.
  4. Apply mulch around base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  5. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for best growth.
  6. Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed.

Pro Tip

Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for optimal flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches
  • Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
  • Do not prune in late summer as it may reduce flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant flowering shrub for bordersColorful backdrop for garden bedsSeasonal focal point with striking bark

Companion Plants

Ornamental grasses Hostas Lavender Sedum Daylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle questions

What zones can Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle grow in?

Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle deer resistant?

Yes — Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle bloom?

Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle need full sun?

Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Cherry Mocha Crape Myrtle with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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