Crape myrtles are among the most popular landscape plants, valued for their vibrant summer blooms, colorful fall foliage, attractive bark, and exceptional heat tolerance. Available in a wide range of sizes and flower colors, they can be used as specimen trees, flowering hedges, foundation plantings, or focal points in the landscape.
With the right variety and proper care, crape myrtles provide months of colorful blooms while thriving in hot summer conditions.
A Four-Season Landscape Favorite
Crape myrtles offer interest throughout the year. Their colorful blooms brighten the landscape from summer into early fall, followed by vibrant autumn foliage and attractive peeling bark that provides winter appeal. Many varieties also attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while in bloom, making them both beautiful and beneficial additions to the landscape.
Growing Crape Myrtles
Crape myrtles thrive in full sun and perform best in well-drained soil. They are highly adaptable once established and are known for their drought tolerance and long bloom season.
For the best results:
- Plant in full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily)
- Choose a location with good air circulation
- Water regularly during the first growing season
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
- Avoid planting in poorly drained areas
Established crape myrtles require very little maintenance and perform exceptionally well in summer heat.
Crape Myrtle Watering & Pruning Guide (By Type)
One of the most important things to understand about crape myrtles is that pruning should depend on the variety and desired shape. Choosing the proper mature size also reduces the need for excessive pruning.
Dwarf Crape Myrtles
(Includes: Pocomoke®, Cherry Dazzle®, Purple Dazzle®, Razzle Dazzle® Series)
💧 Watering:
- Water deeply once or twice per week during establishment
- Mature plants need supplemental watering only during extended drought
- Avoid overwatering
✂️ Pruning:
- Prune lightly in late winter or early spring
- Remove dead or crossing branches
- Maintain the plant’s naturally rounded shape
✔️ Dwarf varieties are perfect for foundation plantings, borders, and smaller landscapes.
Intermediate Crape Myrtles
(Includes: Tonto, Catawba, Sioux, Zuni, Pink Velour®)
💧 Watering:
- Water deeply during the first growing season
- Once established, water during prolonged dry periods
✂️ Pruning:
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter
- Thin crowded interior branches to improve airflow
- Avoid topping or severely cutting back the tree
✔️ Medium-sized varieties make excellent accent trees and fit well in most residential landscapes.
Tree-Form Crape Myrtles
(Includes: Natchez, Muskogee, Tuscarora, Dynamite®, Red Rocket®, Twilight®)
💧 Watering:
- Water consistently during establishment
- Mature trees tolerate heat and drought well
- Water deeply during extended dry spells
✂️ Pruning:
- Prune during late winter while dormant
- Remove suckers growing from the base
- Eliminate crossing or rubbing branches
- Preserve the tree’s natural multi-trunk or single-trunk form
✔️ Large crape myrtles provide spectacular summer blooms, attractive bark, and outstanding fall color.
Crape Myrtle Care Tips
- Plant in full sun for maximum flowering.
- Water deeply during the first year to establish a strong root system.
- Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base while keeping mulch away from the trunk.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if needed.
- Remove spent seed heads if desired, though this is not necessary for repeat blooming.
- Monitor for powdery mildew and aphids, especially in humid weather, and select disease-resistant varieties whenever possible.
- Avoid “crape murder”—the practice of severely topping trees—which weakens plants and ruins their natural form.
Choosing the Right Crape Myrtle
One of the most important decisions is selecting a variety that fits your available space. Crape myrtles range from compact shrubs under 3 feet tall to stately trees that reach 25 feet or more.
Flower colors include:
- White
- Pink
- Lavender
- Purple
- Red
- Deep magenta
By choosing the proper mature size, you can minimize pruning while allowing the tree to develop its beautiful natural form and distinctive exfoliating bark.
Visit Us to Shop Crape Myrtles
Looking to add a crape myrtle to your landscape this season? Visit our Garden Center to explore our selection of dwarf, intermediate, and tree-form crape myrtles in a variety of bloom colors and sizes. Our team can help you choose the right variety for your landscape so you can enjoy years of dependable color, shade, and seasonal beauty.