Crape Myrtle Dark Roast
Lagerstroemia indica 'Dark Roast'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
144 inches
Width
108 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Lagerstroemia indica 'Dark Roast' is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its smooth, exfoliating bark, dark green foliage, and striking clusters of crinkled, deep red flowers that bloom in summer. This cultivar is distinguished by its unique near-black buds opening to deep red flowers and rich foliage, offering a dramatic contrast in ornamental landscapes. It has exceptional heat and drought tolerance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bare roots or seeds into moist soil in spring.
- Water regularly to establish roots during first year.
- Prune in late winter to shape and remove dead wood.
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring for best blooms.
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Monitor for pests and treat organically if detected.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for abundant flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 💧
- Prune to maintain shape after flowering 🌿
- Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwatering can lead to root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy pruning in late summer
- Do not plant in poorly drained soil
- Ignore pest signs
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Crape Myrtle Dark Roast questions
What zones can Crape Myrtle Dark Roast grow in?
Crape Myrtle Dark Roast 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 Crape Myrtle Dark Roast deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Crape Myrtle Dark Roast, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Crape Myrtle Dark Roast bloom?
Crape Myrtle Dark Roast 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 Crape Myrtle Dark Roast need full sun?
Crape Myrtle Dark Roast does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Crape Myrtle Dark Roast drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Crape Myrtle Dark Roast handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Lagerstroemia to compare
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Lagerstroemia indica 'Delta Eclipse'
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Crape Myrtle Dark Roast with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
