By John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent

Selecting and Caring for Crape Myrtles

A popular landscaping tree, especially in the southern United States, is the crape myrtle
(Lagerstroemia indica). Native to Southeast Asia, crape myrtles were introduced to America in the
1800s and have since become a staple in southern landscapes. They are valued for their hardiness
and long-lasting floral display, blooming from early summer through fall. Flower colors include white,
pink, red, and purple.

Choosing the Right Crape Myrtle

When selecting a crape myrtle for your landscape, there are several important factors to consider.
As with any tree, available space is critical. Crape myrtles vary greatly in size depending on the
variety, ranging from as small as 2 feet tall to as large as 30 feet tall, with widths from 3 to 30 feet.
For landscapes with limited space or concerns about overhead structures, a dwarf variety such as
‘Hopi’ is a good choice, reaching a mature height of 4–5 feet. For larger, open areas where height is
not an issue, a variety such as ‘Natchez’ may be ideal, as it can reach a mature height of
approximately 30 feet.

Site Requirements

Once you have selected the appropriate size, proper placement is essential. Crape myrtles require
6–8 hours of full sun each day for optimal growth and flowering. They prefer slightly acidic soil, with
a recommended pH range of 5.5–6.5. Soil pH and nutrient levels can be determined through a soil
test, which will also provide fertilizer recommendations.

During the first year after planting, crape myrtles require regular watering to establish a strong root
system. After approximately five years, they become much more drought tolerant and require
minimal supplemental watering.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is a major component of crape myrtle care and should be done while the tree is dormant. In
North Louisiana, most trees and shrubs enter dormancy from late October through late February.
Proper pruning involves selectively removing weak, damaged, crossing, or rubbing branches, as well
as trimming branches that interfere with power lines or nearby structures.

A common but improper pruning practice—often jokingly referred to as “crape murder”—involves
cutting off the tops of the tree, leaving it with a buzz-cut appearance. While this practice does not kill
the tree, it weakens it by creating large wounds that invite disease and insect problems. Additionally,
severe topping can cause unsightly knobby growths to form at the cuts.

Proper pruning helps maintain the natural shape and form of the tree, keeps its size manageable,
reduces the risk of structural damage, and promotes overall tree health.

For more information, contact your local extension agent:
John Monzingo
318-927-3110 or 318-371-1371