Anyone looking for a high-impact shrub for the garden usually prioritises plants that bring together beauty, hardiness and long-lasting flowering. One of many gardeners’ favourites is Lagerstroemia indica, commonly known as crape myrtle. Depending on the cultivar and growing conditions, it can reach around 3 metres in height and stay in flower for roughly 120 days, covering its branches with clusters of blooms in shades of pink, white, red, lilac or purple. What’s more, it adapts well to different climates and, once established, needs very little attention.
Why is Lagerstroemia so popular?
The standout trait of Lagerstroemia is its extended flowering season. Through summer and into part of autumn, it produces masses of flowers, making it a focal point in gardens, along pavements and in parks.
Another reason it is so valued is its ornamental bark. As time passes, the bark naturally peels away, revealing a smooth trunk with varied tones. Even when it is not in bloom, the plant still adds visual interest to the landscape.
How to grow Lagerstroemia to get more flowers
For an impressive display of flowers, crape myrtle needs plenty of light. Ideally, plant it where it will receive at least six hours of sun each day, in fertile, well-drained soil.
Light pruning during the dormant period also helps encourage fresh growth, and it is on these new shoots that the next season’s flowers will form.
- Full sun for most of the day.
- Fertile soil with good drainage.
- Regular watering while the young plant is getting established.
- Feeding rich in organic matter.
- Light pruning at the end of winter.
- Enough room for the canopy to develop.
What are the benefits of growing crape myrtle?
As well as its long flowering period, the plant copes well with heat and, once mature, tolerates short dry spells. It can be grown on its own as a small ornamental tree, or used in rows and large beds.
Its flowers also attract bees and other pollinating insects, helping to boost garden biodiversity. In many areas, the leaves turn reddish and orange before they drop, adding an extra decorative touch in autumn.
- Prolonged flowering.
- Can reach around 3 metres in height.
- Attracts pollinators.
- Good heat resistance.
- Ornamental bark on the trunk.
- Low maintenance once established.
Is it worth planting this species?
For anyone who wants a garden full of colour for several months of the year, crape myrtle is an excellent option. With strong sunshine, well-prepared soil and occasional pruning, it rewards you with abundant flowering and vigorous growth.
When grown in the right conditions, this ornamental tree can remain one of the garden’s main highlights for many years, requiring only straightforward, basic upkeep.
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