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Red Crape Myrtle Tree
Red Crape Myrtle Tree
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The Red Crape Myrtle Tree (Bare Root) is a fast-growing, highly ornamental tree prized for its brilliant red blooms, smooth exfoliating bark, and stunning fall foliage. This heat-loving, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance variety thrives in warm climates, making it an excellent choice for landscaping, urban settings, and home gardens. With its long blooming season from summer to early fall, the Red Crape Myrtle provides multi-season beauty with minimal upkeep.
Red Crape Myrtle Tree (Bare Root) Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Variety | Bare Root |
| Botanical Name | Lagerstroemia indica |
| Common Names | Red Crape Myrtle, Crepe Myrtle |
| Mature Height | 10-25 feet |
| Mature Width | 10-20 feet |
| Growth Rate | Fast (2-5 feet per year) |
| Lifespan | 50+ years |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 6-10 |
| Sun Preference | Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight) |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, loamy, sandy, or clay soil |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7.5) |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Flowering Season | Summer to early fall (June-September) |
| Flower Color | Bright red |
| Fall Foliage | Orange, red, and yellow hues |
| Bark Appearance | Smooth, peeling bark with shades of cinnamon and gray |
| Wildlife Attraction | Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds |
| Growth Habit | Multi-stemmed, vase-shaped canopy |
| Self-Pollinating? | Yes |
| Landscape Uses | Specimen tree, privacy screen, street tree, ornamental border |
| Maintenance Level | Low |
Environmental Benefits
🌱 Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance – Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it ideal for drought-prone regions.
🐝 Pollinator-Friendly – Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, contributing to local biodiversity.
🌿 Air Quality & Soil Improvement – Helps reduce air pollution and prevent soil erosion.
🍂 Year-Round Beauty – Offers lush summer flowers, fiery fall foliage, and ornamental winter bark.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast-growing and provides quick shade | Requires full sun for best flowering |
| Long bloom period with stunning red flowers | Flowers drop in late summer, requiring some cleanup |
| Disease-resistant and drought-tolerant | Requires occasional pruning to maintain shape |
| Attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity | Not ideal for colder climates (below USDA zone 6) |
| Exfoliating bark adds winter interest | Can spread if not pruned properly |
Planting & Care Guide (Bare Root)
- Spacing: Plant 10-20 feet apart for best growth and air circulation
- Soaking: Soak bare root in water for 6-12 hours before planting
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, keeping roots level with soil surface
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Pruning: Best pruned in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and shape the canopy
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth
- Watering: Water regularly in the first year, then reduce as the tree becomes established
The Red Crape Myrtle Tree (Bare Root) is a top choice for warm climates, offering brilliant red blooms, rapid growth, and year-round visual appeal. Whether planted for shade, privacy, or as a stunning focal point, this drought-tolerant, low-maintenance tree is a valuable and versatile addition to any landscape!
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