Species

Lagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

43 other cultivars

shrub

Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Mystic Magenta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lagerstroemia indica is a deciduous Asian shrub or small multi-stemmed tree widely grown across warm regions for its smooth, mottled bark and late-season flowers. It sets large terminal panicles on new growth throughout the hottest months, requiring full sun and well-draining soil to maintain vigorous growth.

'Mystic Magenta' is an upright, compact cultivar distinguished by dark purple-black foliage that retains its deep pigmentation without fading in high summer heat. Brilliant magenta to fuchsia-pink blooms emerge continuously from mid-summer through fall, presenting a strong visual contrast against the dark leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking dark purple-black foliage paired with magenta summer blossoms offers strong accent contrast.

Demonstrates high heat, humidity, and drought tolerance once established in urban settings.

Nectar-rich summer panicles support hummingbirds, native bees, and general pollinators.

SpeciesLagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144"

Width

96"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer – Fall

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun with well-draining loamy, sandy, or clay soil.
Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth, keeping the root crown level with the soil surface.
Backfill with native soil, tamp down lightly to eliminate air pockets, and water deeply.
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main trunk.

Pro Tip

Avoid severe heading cuts or topping major structural stems in winter, which induces weak shoots and delays flowering; thin out crossing branches selectively in late winter to preserve the multi-stemmed form.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in maximum sunlight to ensure intense dark leaf coloration and abundant blooming.
Water regularly during the first growing season until the root system establishes.
Prune lightly in late winter to remove damaged wood and maintain natural structure.

Don't

Do not sever thick main limbs back to stubs ('crape murder'), which damages natural branching and produces weak growth.
Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils where root rot can develop.
Do not overhead-water late in the evening to keep foliage dry.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen focal point in small gardens or courtyardsAccent planting in mixed shrub bordersInformal screen or hedge plantingLarge patio container specimen

Companion Plants

Salvia leucantha Echinacea purpurea Pennisetum alopecuroides Loropetalum chinense

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Crape Myrtle questions

What zones can Crape Myrtle grow in?

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.

When does Crape Myrtle bloom?

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

Does Crape Myrtle need full sun?

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

Is Crape Myrtle drought tolerant?

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