Lagerstroemia ‘Natchez’ (Crape Myrtle)

Noted for its outstanding ornamental features, Lagerstroemia ‘Natchez’ (Crape Myrtle) is a striking, vase-shaped, deciduous tree with a profusion of large clusters, up to 12 in. (30 cm), packed with ruffled and crinkly, pure white flowers at its branch tips. Blooming in mid to late summer, they create a brilliant display in the landscape. The crepe-papery flowers give way to round seed capsules which often persist well into winter. The foliage of dark green leaves turns orange and red shades in the fall before dropping – revealing the smooth, rich cinnamon-brown, peeling bark. Highly disease resistant, this multi-season beauty makes a striking specimen plant.

• Grows up to 25-30 ft. tall (750-900 cm) and 15-25 ft. wide (450-750 cm) at maturity.
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought and heat tolerant. Water regularly until established. To help crape myrtles retain water, mulch with organic matter 2-3 in. deep (5-7 cm).
• Crape myrtles are not usually browsed by deer.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or for foundation plantings. 
• Crape myrtles bloom on new wood and should be pruned in winter or early spring. Remove dead branches any time.