Species

Lagerstroemia indicaCrape Myrtle

43 other cultivars

shrub

Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Pure White'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lagerstroemia indica is a deciduous species native to Asia, widely cultivated for its smooth, exfoliating bark and crinkled summer blossoms. The wild species naturally develops a multi-stemmed, vase-shaped habit that thrives in hot, sunny conditions.

'Pure White' is distinguished by its near-black, deep purple foliage that maintains its dark coloration throughout the heat of summer. The dark leaves provide a stark contrast to the dense panicles of ruffled, pure white flowers that bloom from mid-summer into fall.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking contrast between near-black summer foliage and brilliant, ruffled white flowers, complemented by smooth bark.

Highly drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for low-water landscapes and urban environments.

Provides nectar and pollen for 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, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

High tolerance

Lifespan

Perennial

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 that receives at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily to maintain dark foliage color.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the top of the root flare sits slightly above the surrounding soil level.
Backfill with native soil, tamp down gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the root zone.
Apply a three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Water deeply once or twice a week during the first growing season until the root system is fully established.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to ensure the foliage retains its deep black coloration; shading causes the leaves to revert to a dull greenish-bronze.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune in late winter while the plant is dormant to remove dead or crossing branches.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
Clear away suckers arising from the base of the trunk to maintain a clean form.

Don't

Do not top or pollard the branches back to thick stubs, which ruins the natural architecture and weakens new growth.
Do not plant in shady areas where the foliage will lose its dark purple coloration.
Do not allow the soil to remain waterlogged or soggy.

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 shrub bordersAccent plantFoundation plantingUrban gardens

Companion Plants

Pennisetum Salvia Echinacea Coreopsis

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 6–10. 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 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.