Crepe Myrtles are popular flowering trees and large shrubs known for their long-lasting summer blooms, attractive bark, and graceful shape in the landscape. Depending on the variety, their flowers may be white, pink, red, lavender, or purple, making them a colorful choice for sunny yards.
They are especially popular in Southern gardens because they handle heat well and can bloom for many weeks during summer. Many varieties also provide attractive peeling bark, colorful fall foliage, and interesting branch structure after the leaves drop. These features give Crepe Myrtles value during more than one season.
Mature size varies greatly by variety. Some remain compact and shrub-like, while others grow into large, multi-trunked trees. Choosing the right variety for the available space is important because proper sizing allows the plant to maintain its natural shape and reduces the need for severe pruning later.
Crepe Myrtles work well as specimen plants, along driveways, near patios, in mixed borders, and as flowering screens. Give larger varieties enough room so their branches do not crowd buildings, power lines, walkways, or neighboring plants.
Plant Crepe Myrtles in full sun with well-drained soil for the strongest flowering and healthiest growth. Good air circulation can also help reduce problems with powdery mildew. Water regularly during the first growing season while the root system becomes established. Once established, many varieties tolerate Southern heat and short dry periods well.
If pruning is needed, remove dead, damaged, rubbing, or crossing branches in late winter. Avoid cutting all the upper branches back to the same height. This severe practice can spoil the plant’s natural form and produce weak, unattractive shoots. Our guide to pruning flowering shrubs provides more help with choosing the right pruning method and timing.
The University of Georgia Extension Crape Myrtle Culture guide provides additional information about varieties, planting, flowering, pruning, and care in Georgia landscapes. Crepe Myrtles are among the most useful flowering shrubs and trees grown in the state.
Plant Details
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Color: White, pink, red, lavender, purple
Bloom Time: Summer, fall
Mature Height: 10-25 feet
Mature Width: 6-15 feet
Hardiness Zone: 7-9
Pruning Time: Late Winter, early spring
Notes
Crepe Myrtles bloom best in full sun and need plenty of light to produce strong flowers. Plant them where they have room to grow, since some varieties stay small while others can become larger trees over time. They prefer well-drained soil and usually handle heat and dry weather well once established. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing dead branches, crossing limbs, and small shoots from the base if needed. Avoid heavy topping, often called “crepe murder,” because it can weaken the natural shape of the plant and lead to awkward growth. With the right location and light pruning, Crepe Myrtles can bring dependable color to the summer landscape year after year.
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