Species

Lagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

43 other cultivars

shrub

Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink'

Lagerstroemia indica 'Shell Pink'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lagerstroemia indica, native to temperate and tropical Asia, is a deciduous species known for its exfoliating bark, architectural multi-stemmed habit, and crinkled summer flowers. The species thrives in hot, humid climates and adapts to a wide range of well-drained soils.

'Shell Pink' is distinguished by its intense dark maroon to near-black foliage that maintains its deep coloration all season when grown in full sun. Ruffled panicles of soft coral-pink flowers open from summer until the first frost, contrasting sharply against the dark leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Features striking near-black foliage and soft coral-pink flowers that bloom continuously from summer to frost.

Offers high drought tolerance, coastal salt tolerance, and strong resistance to powdery mildew once established.

Provides nectar and pollen for native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

SpeciesLagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144"

Width

98"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

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 planting site that receives at least six hours of direct daily sunlight to ensure deep foliage color.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the soil drains rapidly.
Backfill with native soil without adding amendments, and water deeply to settle the roots.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to prevent the dark foliage from reverting to a muddy green, and avoid excessive pruning of structural wood, which causes weak, spindly regrowth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in a location with sharp soil drainage.
Provide full sun to maintain the dark burgundy leaf color.
Water deeply during prolonged dry spells in summer.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy shade, which turns the foliage green.
Do not overwater or plant in waterlogged soils.
Do not hack back thick structural branches in winter.

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 PlantingMixed BordersHedgesFoundation PlantingsCoastal Gardens

Companion Plants

Chionanthus Amelanchier Salvia Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink' questions

What zones can Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink' grow in?

Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink' 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 'Shell Pink' bloom?

Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink' 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 'Shell Pink' need full sun?

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

Is Crape Myrtle 'Shell Pink' drought tolerant?

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