Crape Myrtle (Crepe Myrtle)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Myrtales, Family: Lythraceae, Genus: Lagerstroemia, Species: Lagerstroemia indica · Lythraceae (Loosestrife family) · Simple, deciduous leaf
Species
Lagerstroemia indica
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Family
Lythraceae (Loosestrife family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acute to rounded apex
Size
Approximately 1 to 2.5 inches long, typical for the species
Margin
Entire (smooth)
Arrangement
Subopposite or alternate near the inflorescences, otherwise often opposite lower on the stem
Rarity
Very Common in cultivation across southern regions, landscapes, and suburban gardens
Color & Pattern
Medium to bright green upper surface with paler undersides, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with prominent midrib and distinct lateral veins forming a netted pattern
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) above, sometimes slightly pubescent along the veins beneath, with a somewhat papery texture
Description
Lagerstroemia indica, commonly known as the crape myrtle, is a popular multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree renowned for its long-lasting, crinkled summer flowers, smooth exfoliating bark, and striking autumn foliage. The crown is often spreading and vase-shaped.
Key Features
Smooth, cinnamon-colored exfoliating bark, simple opposite or subopposite leaves, and showy panicles of crinkled flowers in summer
Habitat
Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, highly adaptable to urban environments, tolerates drought once established
Geographic Range
Native to Asia (China, Korea, Japan, and the Himalayas), widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in warm temperate and subtropical regions worldwide
Condition Notes
Healthy overall condition with normal green coloration and no significant signs of pests or disease, grade is Good
Interesting Facts
Crape myrtles are often referred to as the 'lilacs of the South' due to their prolific summer blooms and adaptation to southern United States climates. Their distinctive bark peels naturally to reveal smooth, colorful inner layers.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental landscape plant for street plantings, gardens, and patios. Certain traditional medicine preparations utilize extracts from parts of the plant, but it is rarely used medicinally in the West.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects during the summer months when many other trees have finished blooming
Similar Species
Can be confused with other Lagerstroemia species or hybrids, such as Lagerstroemia fauriei, which typically feature darker, more distinctly peeling bark and greater resistance to powdery mildew.
Foraging Tips
Easily identified in urban and suburban landscapes by its peeling multi-colored bark, opposite leaf arrangement, and smooth-margined elliptical leaves
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and horses, making it a safe addition to pet-friendly gardens