Crepe myrtle
A species of Crape myrtles, Also known as Crape myrtle, Crepe flower Botanical name : Lagerstroemia indica Genus : Crape myrtles
Crepe myrtle, A species of Crape myrtles
Also known as:
Crape myrtle, Crepe flower
Botanical name: Lagerstroemia indica
Genus: Crape myrtles
Description
Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a highly ornamental small tropical tree or shrub, often multi-stemmed. It is native to India, Southeastern Asia, and Japan, and features a characteristic vase-shaped crown and beautifully-ruffled pink blooms that can last from early summer to autumn. It is also a popular nesting shrub for small birds.
Plant Type
Shrub
Lifespan
Perennial
Bloom Time
Summer, autumn
Plant Height
6 - 7 m
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People often ask
General Info
Name story
Indian crape myrtle||Crape myrtle
The crepe myrtle has existed in plant history for more than a thousand years. Before it blossoms, people often think that its bright green leaves resemble another plant called Myrtle, surprised to see beautiful lush flowers later appearing. What makes it special is that, in full bloom, its flower petals are slightly wrinkly and exhibit a rich texture, like a crape. Since the beauty of the plant was discovered by Westerners in India, the plant was then referred to as the Indian crepe myrtle, or crepe myrtle for short.
Symbolism
Good luck, eloquence, obsessed love, femininity, household peace, marriage
Usages
Environmental Protection Value
Feeds a number of different bird species in the summer and winter, while also providing shelter and nesting areas.
Garden Use
Crepe myrtle is a deciduous shrub and tree that is commonly found in gardens within warmer climates. It is prized for its attractive winter bark, colorful fall foliage, and showy summer blooms. Its dense root system makes it suitable for erosion control. It is also used for boundaries. Crepe myrtle is good for Pollinator gardens. Plant with Peruvian Lily for color contrast.
Care Guide for Crepe myrtle
Water
Crepe myrtle is an extremely drought-tolerant plant that needs regular watering only during its initial growing period (for about the first two years). When established, it will only need supplemental watering during extended periods of drought. Water the plant only when the soil becomes bone dry or when the leaves start wilting.
Fertilization
Fertilization once every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Pruning
Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.
Planting Time
Early spring, late autumn
Potting Suggestions
Should be repotted every 2-3 years in a large pot (2-3 times the size of the rootball), with good drainage holes.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Myrtle order Family
Loosestrife Genus
Crape myrtles Species
Crepe myrtle 
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