
Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle
Crapemyrtle 'Center Stage Red'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
108 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to Medium
Humidity
Tolerates high humidity
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Hybrid (Asian parentage)
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Crapemyrtles are deciduous shrubs or small trees prized for their long season of large, showy flower panicles in summer. They also offer attractive exfoliating bark and good fall color. 'Center Stage Red' is distinguished by its deep black-purple foliage that provides a dramatic contrast to its vibrant, true red flowers. It has an upright habit and excellent disease resistance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained; amend if necessary.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot.
- Plant at the same depth it was in the container.
- Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle roots.
- Mulch to conserve water, but keep it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Plant in full, all-day sun to get the darkest foliage color and the most abundant, vibrant flowers.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for best performance and color.
- Water deeply but infrequently once established to encourage drought tolerance.
- Prune selectively to enhance the natural form.
- Remove spent flower clusters to potentially encourage more blooms.
Don't
- Don't commit 'crape murder' by topping the plant; it creates weak growth.
- Don't plant in shade; it results in poor flowering and leggy growth.
- Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of foliar diseases.
- Don't over-fertilize, which can reduce flowering.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle questions
What zones can Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle grow in?
Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle 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 Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle deer resistant?
Yes — Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle bloom?
Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle typically blooms in early summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle need full sun?
Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Center Stage Red Crapemyrtle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

