How to Grow Crepe Myrtles
Crepe myrtles are some of the most popular flowering trees and shrubs in Southern landscapes. Crepe Myrtles are dependable plants are known for their colorful summer blooms, attractive bark and ability to tolerate hot weather once established. Depending on the variety, a crepe myrtle may remain a compact shrub under 5 feet tall or grow into a beautiful flowering tree that reaches 30 feet.
The most important step is choosing the right type before planting. A crepe myrtle should be selected for the available space instead of being forced to fit a small area with heavy pruning later. Planting a tall-growing tree variety beside a porch, sidewalk or power line is a little like buying a full-size pickup truck and trying to park it in a broom closet. It may fit temporarily, but problems are coming.
Different Types of Crepe Myrtles
Crepe myrtles are available in dwarf, semi-dwarf, medium and tree-size varieties. Bloom colors include white, pink, lavender, purple, coral, rose and deep red. Many types also develop colorful fall foliage and smooth, peeling bark that adds interest during winter.
| Variety | Mature Height | Mature Width | Bloom Color | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pocomoke | Up to 5 feet | Up to 5 feet | Deep rose-pink | Containers, small beds and low hedges |
| Seminole | About 8 feet | About 7 feet | Medium pink | Foundation plantings and smaller landscapes |
| Acoma | About 10 feet | About 10 feet | White | Small lawns, patios and specimen plantings |
| Catawba | About 10–15 feet | About 10–14 feet | Dark purple | Medium landscapes and accent plantings |
| Sioux | About 15 feet | About 12 feet | Dark pink | Medium yards and specimen plantings |
| Tuskegee | About 15 feet | About 20 feet | Deep rose | Wider landscape beds and open areas |
| Tuscarora | About 20 feet | About 15 feet | Dark coral-pink | Lawns and larger landscapes |
| Muskogee | About 21 feet | About 15 feet | Light lavender-pink | Large yards and driveway accents |
| Natchez | Up to about 25 feet | Allow generous space | White | Large lawns and tree-form plantings |
| Red Rocket | About 20–30 feet | About 15–20 feet | Cherry-red | Large spaces and dramatic focal points |
Always check the plant label before purchasing because mature sizes may vary depending on the cultivar, local growing conditions and climate. A dwarf crepe myrtle works well near a foundation or in a container. Taller tree-form varieties need room to develop their natural shape without crowding a house, driveway or neighboring tree.
Where to Plant a Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtles perform best in full sun. Choose an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Too much shade can reduce flowering and increase the likelihood of disease problems. Good air circulation is also important.
Before planting, consider both the mature height and width. A plant that may grow 20 feet wide should not be squeezed into a narrow strip between a sidewalk and a house. Give each plant enough room to spread naturally. Water newly planted crepe myrtles regularly while the root system becomes established. Once established, they are more tolerant of dry weather, although supplemental watering during prolonged drought can support better flowering.
How to Prune Crepe Myrtles Correctly
Crepe myrtles bloom on new growth, so necessary pruning is usually completed during late winter or early spring before the plant begins actively growing. Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches. You can also remove small shoots growing from the base of the plant and thin crowded interior branches to improve airflow.
Avoid cutting every large branch back to the same height. This severe topping is often jokingly called “crepe murder.” It creates weak shoots, ruins the natural shape of the plant and can prevent the attractive bark and branching structure from developing properly.
If you want a tree form, select three to five strong trunks and remove unwanted sprouts around the base. As the tree matures, remove selected lower branches gradually to create clearance beneath the canopy. Smaller varieties may also rebloom later in summer if spent flower clusters are removed after the first flush of blooms fades.
When and How to Fertilize Crepe Myrtles
Crepe myrtles do not need excessive fertilizer. Too much nitrogen may encourage fast leafy growth while reducing flowers. A light application of a balanced, complete fertilizer in spring is usually adequate for established plants. A second light feeding may be useful during the growing season if the soil is poor, but avoid overfeeding.
A soil test is the best way to determine what your landscape actually needs. This prevents unnecessary fertilizer applications and helps identify soil pH or nutrient issues. Mulching around the plant can also help conserve moisture, reduce weeds and protect shallow roots. Keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunks.
Final Thoughts
Crepe myrtles can provide months of summer color with surprisingly little maintenance. The secret is not complicated: plant the correct variety in the correct space, give it plenty of sunlight, water it while it becomes established and resist the urge to over-prune or over-fertilize it.
With the right selection, your crepe myrtle can become one of the most dependable and attractive plants in your landscape for years to come.
