Florida Friendly Plant Spotlight: Crape Myrtle

Article By:
Audrey Durr
Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program Coordinator

Crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are a great addition to almost any sunny spot due to their high drought tolerance, tolerance of a wide range of soil types, and the variety of flower colors.

Crape myrtles are available in a variety of sizes ranging from dwarfs (less than four feet after five years) up to medium-sized trees (taller than 20 feet after ten years).

Crape myrtles may flower for up to 100 days during the summer and fall. Flower colors include red, fuchsia, light pink, white, lavender, purple and sometimes combinations of these colors, such as pink and white. After the tree has lost its leaves in the winter, the interesting, peeling bark is given center stage, ranging in color from pale cream to dark cinnamon to rich brown to bright orange.

Container-grown crape myrtles are best planted in early summer: now. All plants require regular watering during establishment, but once established, crape myrtles have a high drought tolerance and low fertilizer needs. The University of Florida article "Fertilization and Irrigation Needs for Florida Lawns and Landscapes" provides invaluable information regarding plant establishment; it can be accessed at www.solutionsforyourlife.org or by calling the Extension office at 352-527-5700.

The crape myrtle aphid (with its associated sooty mold) and powdery mildew are the primary pests of this mostly pest-free plant. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils are the most environmentally safe pesticides for controlling crape myrtle aphids (populations peak June through August). Powdery mildew can be avoided or reduced by choosing a sunny location with good air circulation, preventing frequent wetting of the foliage by irrigation and choosing a variety that has been bred to be resistant to powdery mildew. The UF article "Crape Myrtle in Florida" lists over 90 varieties of crape myrtle, including their size, flower color, bark color, and level of resistance to powdery mildew; this article is also available at www.solutionsforyourlife.org or by calling the Extension office.

Crape myrtles have a low salt tolerance and grow poorly in continuously wet soils. Aside from these few limitations, crape myrtles are a versatile, low-maintenance choice for your Florida-friendly yard.

Visit www.FloridaYards.org to access the Florida Friendly Plant Database for more plant choices. The interactive plant database generates a list of plants suited to your yard based upon information that you provide.

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