Species

Lagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

43 other cultivars

shrub

Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Red Hot'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lagerstroemia indica is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree native to Asia, characterized by a dense, vase-shaped or rounded growth habit. The species is widely naturalized in the southern United States, where it is valued for its smooth bark and long-lasting summer blooms.

'Red Hot' is distinguished by its intense, deep burgundy-black to jet-black foliage that maintains its dark coloration throughout the entire growing season. In summer, large terminal panicles of crinkled, vibrant fiery red flowers emerge, creating a stark contrast against the dark leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking year-round contrast with jet-black foliage and vibrant red summer flowers.

Highly drought-tolerant once established and exhibits good tolerance to urban pollution.

Flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insect pollinators.

SpeciesLagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144"

Width

96"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer – Autumn

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with well-drained loamy, sandy, or clay soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth to ensure proper root establishment.
Backfill with native soil, press firmly to eliminate air pockets, and water deeply.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

To maintain the intense jet-black foliage pigmentation, plant in a site that receives full, unshaded sun; partial shade causes the leaves to revert to a muddy greenish-bronze.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune lightly in late winter to remove dead, crossing, or weak branches and maintain a vase shape.
Apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.

Don't

Do not top the plant or hack back major structural branches, which ruins the natural form and weakens new growth.
Avoid overwatering or planting in low-lying areas prone to standing water.
Do not apply high-nitrogen fertilizers, which stimulate excessive foliage at the expense of flower production.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen plantingMixed bordersHedgesUrban gardensCoastal gardens

Companion Plants

Abelia grandiflora Salvia nemorosa Echinacea purpurea

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 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Crape Myrtle deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Crape Myrtle, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Crape Myrtle bloom?

Crape Myrtle typically blooms in summer through autumn. 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.