tree

Biloxi Crape Myrtle

The Story

Plant Bio

Hybrid crape myrtles (indica x fauriei) were developed by the U.S. National Arboretum for superior disease resistance, vigor, and unique bark characteristics. They are typically larger and more tree-like than pure L. indica.

'Biloxi' is a large, vase-shaped tree-form crape myrtle known for its exceptional exfoliating bark, which reveals a smooth, pale cinnamon-brown trunk. It produces large panicles of pale pink flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental feature is its stunning, smooth, exfoliating bark, which provides significant architectural interest, especially in the winter garden. The large size and graceful vase shape make it a superb specimen tree.

As a medium-sized deciduous tree, it provides excellent summer shade for patios or the south side of a house, which can help reduce cooling costs. Its disease resistance makes it a low-spray choice.

The dense canopy provides shelter and nesting locations for birds. The flowers attract a wide array of pollinators during their long summer bloom period.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High humidity tolerant

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Early fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with full sun and room for a large tree.
Ensure the soil is well-drained.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at ground level.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply.
Stake only if necessary in a very windy location, removing stakes after one year.

Pro Tip

To showcase its stunning bark, selectively prune lower branches as the tree matures to reveal the main trunks.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for at least 6 hours a day.
Water deeply and regularly for the first two years.
Prune thoughtfully in winter to enhance its natural structure.
Appreciate the exfoliating bark and avoid damaging the trunks.

Don't

Do not plant in a small space.
Avoid the practice of 'crape murder'; it ruins the tree's form.
Don't plant in poorly drained soil.
Avoid damaging the trunk with mowers or string trimmers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant street or lawn specimen treeArchitectural focal point for winter interestLarge-scale deciduous privacy screen

Companion Plants

Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans'Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'Heuchera 'Caramel'Carex oshimensis 'Evergold'Liriope muscari

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Biloxi Crape Myrtle questions

What zones can Biloxi Crape Myrtle grow in?

Biloxi Crape Myrtle is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Biloxi Crape Myrtle deer resistant?

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

When does Biloxi Crape Myrtle bloom?

Biloxi Crape Myrtle typically blooms in mid-summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Biloxi Crape Myrtle need full sun?

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

Is Biloxi Crape Myrtle drought tolerant?

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