Species

Lagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

25 other cultivars

shrub

Tonto Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Tonto Hardy'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tonto Hardy Crepe Myrtle is known for its compact growth and vibrant pink flowers. It is a deciduous shrub that provides excellent summer interest.

Developed by the U.S. National Arboretum, 'Tonto' is highly resistant to powdery mildew. It is a semi-dwarf, multi-stemmed shrub with brilliant fuchsia-red flowers, attractive exfoliating bark, and maroon fall foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Lagerstroemia indica Tonto Hardy provides vibrant purple blooms, adding color and elegance to gardens and landscapes.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesLagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

108 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets and humans

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or young plants into the soil, water thoroughly after planting.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth.
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the shrub and remove dead branches.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, reapply annually.
Water regularly during dry periods to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Pro Tip

Add a layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and improve soil quality.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells to encourage healthy roots 🌱
Prune annually to maintain shape and remove dead wood ✂️
Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer
Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering; soggy soil can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late summer or fall, as it may encourage new growth that can be damaged by frost
Refrain from fertilizing in late fall to prevent unnecessary tender growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Flowering shrub with vibrant purple bloomsOrnamental hedgeColorful border accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Yarrow Sedum Coreopsis Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tonto Crape Myrtle questions

What zones can Tonto Crape Myrtle grow in?

Tonto 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 Tonto Crape Myrtle deer resistant?

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

When does Tonto Crape Myrtle bloom?

Tonto 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 Tonto Crape Myrtle need full sun?

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

Is Tonto Crape Myrtle drought tolerant?

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