Indian Crapemyrtle
Lagerstroemia indica 'Tonto'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
120 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
15-20 years
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Lagerstroemia indica 'Tonto' is a deciduous shrub or small tree renowned for its vibrant, long-lasting summer flowers and attractive peeling bark, with lush green foliage that turns in autumn. This cultivar is distinguished by its prolific, deep-pink flower clusters and superior resistance to powdery mildew, making it a popular choice for ornamental planting in warm climates.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the soil in early spring
- Water regularly during the first growing season
- Prune in late winter to shape and remove dead branches
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer for best blooms
Pro Tip
Ensure planting site has excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Fertilize in spring for vibrant blooms
Don't
- Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot ❌
- Do not prune in late fall or winter
- Never plant in poorly drained soil
- Avoid excessive fertilization which can reduce flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| 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
Indian Crapemyrtle questions
What zones can Indian Crapemyrtle grow in?
Indian Crapemyrtle is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Indian Crapemyrtle deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Indian Crapemyrtle, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Indian Crapemyrtle bloom?
Indian Crapemyrtle 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 Indian Crapemyrtle need full sun?
Indian Crapemyrtle does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Lagerstroemia to compare
Northern Belle Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica 'Northern Belle'
Tonto Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica 'Tonto Hardy'
Acoma Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica 'Acoma'
Crape Myrtle Delta Eclipse
Lagerstroemia indica 'Delta Eclipse'
Crape Myrtle Dark Roast
Lagerstroemia indica 'Dark Roast'
Center Stage Pink Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica 'Center Stage'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Indian Crapemyrtle 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.
