Lagerstroemia indica
Overview
The Common Crape Myrtle is a small flowering tree native to Asia and widely cultivated throughout the United States for its vibrant summer flowers, colorful bark, and long season of interest. Often called the “lilac of the South,” it is valued for producing showy blooms during the warmest months of the year when relatively few trees are flowering.
Because of its drought tolerance, adaptability, and ornamental appeal, Common Crape Myrtle has become a familiar feature of streetscapes, campuses, gardens, and public landscapes throughout much of North America.
Identification
Leaves
- Opposite or sometimes alternate leaf arrangement
- Small oval to elliptical leaves
- Glossy green during the growing season
- Orange, red, and burgundy fall color
Bark
- Smooth, exfoliating bark
- Peels in patches to reveal shades of tan, cinnamon, gray, and cream
- Attractive year-round feature
Flowers
- Large clusters of crinkled flowers
- White, pink, red, lavender, or purple depending on cultivar
- Bloom from mid-summer into early autumn
- Produced at branch tips
- Attractive to pollinators
Fruit
- Small round seed capsules
- Brown when mature
- Persist through autumn and winter
- Split open to release numerous seeds
Size
- Typically grows 10 to 25 feet tall
- Mature spread of 10 to 20 feet
- Often develops multiple trunks
Native Range
Common Crape Myrtle is native to China, Korea, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. It has been cultivated for centuries and introduced widely throughout the world as an ornamental landscape tree.
Within the Marshall University Arboretum, Common Crape Myrtle is classified as a Non-Native species.
Ecology and Wildlife Value
Common Crape Myrtle provides seasonal resources for pollinators and wildlife.
Its flowers attract:
- Native bees
- Honeybees
- Butterflies
- Other pollinating insects
The tree also provides:
- Seasonal cover for birds
- Nesting opportunities
- Shade and landscape diversity
While it does not support the same ecological relationships as many native trees, its extended flowering period offers an important nectar source during summer.
Human Uses and Cultural Significance
Common Crape Myrtle is among the most widely planted ornamental trees in warm climates.
The species is valued for:
- Long-lasting summer blooms
- Attractive exfoliating bark
- Drought tolerance
- Compact size
- Multi-season interest
Thousands of cultivated varieties have been developed with different flower colors, growth habits, and mature sizes, making crape myrtles popular choices for both residential and public landscapes.
Common Crape Myrtle at Marshall University
Common Crape Myrtle contributes summer color and ornamental diversity to the Marshall University Arboretum. Its flowers provide a welcome display during the hottest months of the year, while its peeling bark and fall foliage add interest during other seasons.
As a non-native ornamental species, Common Crape Myrtle demonstrates how trees from around the world have become important components of modern campus landscapes while complementing the arboretum’s collection of native and introduced flowering trees.
Quick Facts
Common Name: Common Crape Myrtle
Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia indica
Family: Lythraceae
Native Region: Non-Native
Mature Height: 10-25 feet
Mature Spread: 10-20 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Soil Preferences: Well-drained soils; tolerant of heat and drought
USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9
Bloom Period: June to September
Fruit/Seed: Small woody capsules containing numerous seeds
Wildlife Value: Supports pollinators and provides seasonal habitat value
Notable Characteristics: Showy summer flowers, exfoliating bark, drought tolerance, and long bloom season