Looking to enhance your landscape with vibrant color and effortless beauty? Our guide to crepe myrtles for sale near you helps you find the perfect flowering tree for your yard. With options tailored to your local area, discover how these versatile, low-maintenance trees can elevate curb appeal and bring long-lasting blooms to your outdoor space—all just a short drive away.
Crepe Myrtle Varieties: Comparison Table
| Name/Type | Growth Habit | Mature Height | Flower Colors | Best Zones | Notable Feature | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Diamond® | Tree/large shrub | 10–12 ft | Red, Purple, White | 7–9 | Dark foliage | Accent, specimen |
| Natchez | Tree | 18–25 ft | Pure white | 6–9 | Peeling bark, fast growth | Shade, street trees |
| Tuscarora | Tree | 20–25 ft | Watermelon red | 7–9 | Heat tolerant, tall | Shade, privacy |
| Muskogee | Tree | 20–25 ft | Lavender, Purple | 6–9 | Long bloom time | Shade, large yards |
| Sioux | Tree/large shrub | 15–20 ft | Pink | 6–10 | Disease resistant | Borders, privacy |
| Dwarf Varieties | Bush, small shrub | 3–5 ft | Pink, Red, White | 6–9 | Small size, container use | Foundation, pots |
| Miniature | Low groundcover/shrub | 1–3 ft | Various | 7–10 | Unique landscaping | Groundcover, edges |
| Tonto | Small tree/shrub | 8–10 ft | Fuchsia-red | 6–9 | Compact size | Small yards, screens |
| Twilight | Tree | 20–22 ft | Purple, sunset pink | 7–9 | Deep color, striking | Focal point |
| Miami | Tree | 25 ft | Peach-pink | 7–9 | Rare, great shade | Large gardens |
| Zuni | Shrub/small tree | 8–10 ft | Lavender | 6–9 | Multi-trunk form | Ornamental, hedges |
Everyday Uses of Crepe Myrtles
Crepe myrtles are one of the most versatile landscape plants available. Thanks to their diverse sizes and spectacular summer flowers, you can find a crepe myrtle variety for almost any purpose in your yard or garden.
Typical Applications
- Ornamental Trees: Larger crepe myrtles like Natchez, Muskogee, and Tuscarora act as shade trees and focal points thanks to their height and vivid blooms.
- Privacy Screens/Hedges: Medium and dwarf varieties (e.g., Sioux, Zuni) work well for creating living screens or borders.
- Foundation Plantings: Dwarf and miniature types are ideal for planting along foundations, walkways, and patios.
- Patio and Container Gardens: Dwarf and miniature crepe myrtles thrive in pots, making them perfect for balconies and decks.
- Street Trees/Avenues: Tree-form crepe myrtles are used in urban landscapes because they handle pruning well and do not have invasive roots.
- Groundcover & Edging: Miniatures (1–3 ft) are versatile for covering bare spots, slopes, or as colorful edging.
Key Benefits of Crepe Myrtles
Why do crepe myrtles stand out among flowering trees and shrubs?
Long-Lasting, Vivid Blooms
- Bloom from midsummer to early fall—often 3–4 months.
- Vibrant, crepe-like flowers in a wide spectrum of reds, whites, pinks, and purples.
Low Maintenance
- Adaptable to different soils (loamy, sandy, clay) as long as drainage is good.
- Once established, crepe myrtles are drought tolerant and tolerate heat.
- Require minimal pruning.
Flexible Growing Options
- Grown as single or multi-trunk trees, shrubs, or treelike hedges.
- Available in a range of heights to suit any space—from 2 ft to over 25 ft at maturity.
Year-Round Interest
- Showy summer flowers, attractive peeling bark in winter, and fresh green spring leaves.
- Some varieties also display striking fall color.
Pest and Disease Resistance
- Modern cultivars have been bred for increased resistance to pests (like aphids) and diseases (such as powdery mildew).
How to Choose the Right Crepe Myrtle for Your Needs
Selecting the perfect crepe myrtle requires a bit of planning. Consider these primary factors:
1. Mature Size and Growth Habit
- Tree Types (15–25 ft+): Best for shade, driveways, and big landscapes.
- Small Trees/Shrubs (8–15 ft): Good for borders, small yards, or multi-stem grouping.
- Dwarf/Miniatures (1–5 ft): Great for containers, groundcovers, foundation planting.
2. Flower Color
- Available in white, pink (light to deep), purple, red, and peach.
- Choose a color that complements your house, other plants, or your personal preference.
3. Cold Hardiness
- Most thrive in USDA zones 6–9/10. Choose varieties bred for your specific climate, especially if you live in colder areas (zone 6 or lower).
- Some, like Natchez and Muskogee, are especially cold-hardy.
4. Sunlight Requirements
- Crepe myrtles need at least 6 hours of full sun per day for best blooming.
5. Soil Conditions
- Adaptable but prefer slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil.
6. Specific Features or Needs
- Bark: Natchez offers attractive exfoliating (peeling) bark.
- Growth Rate: Fast growers like Tuscarora provide shade quickly.
- Unique leaf or flower color: Black Diamond® cultivars have dark purple foliage.
7. Space Available
- Verify mature width as well as height, especially for group plantings or tight spaces.
User Tips: Best Practices for Selecting and Using Crepe Myrtles
When Shopping
- Check the Root Type: Potted crepe myrtles are easier for homeowners to plant; field-grown (balled-and-burlapped) may require equipment.
- Inspect for Health: Leaves should look healthy; avoid plants with wilt, leaf spots, or bugs.
- Size Matters: Larger container sizes (e.g., 15-gallon) offer immediate impact but are heavier to handle.
- Buy Locally When Possible: Local nurseries often carry varieties that are proven in your climate.
Planting and Site Selection
- Sunlight: Pick the sunniest spot in your yard.
- Spacing: Allow 6–10 feet between trees for air circulation and full size.
- Soil Prep: Amend poor soils with compost; ensure good drainage.
- Watering: Water deeply after planting; less frequently once established.
Establishment & Care
- Fertilize: Use a balanced fertilizer (8-8-8, 10-10-10) in spring as leaves resume growth.
- Mulch: 2–3 inches of mulch conserves moisture and prevents weeds but keep mulch away from trunk.
- Prune: Lightly prune for shape in late winter or early spring; remove only dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
- Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Too much nitrogen leads to lush leaves but fewer flowers.
Troubleshooting
- Pests: Aphids, Japanese beetles, and powdery mildew are rare on newer varieties, but monitor your trees early on.
- Root Spread: Crepe myrtles have shallow, non-invasive roots but should be 5–10 ft from sidewalks/foundations.
Landscaping with Crepe Myrtles
- Mixed with perennials, low shrubs, or as part of a pollinator-friendly garden (butterflies love them!).
- Understory plantings, such as hostas or daylilies, thrive in their partial shade.
- Use dwarf varieties in mass plantings for a spectacular seasonal display.
Technical Features and Key Attribute Comparison
| Attribute | Large Tree Types | Medium-Shrub Types | Dwarf/Miniature Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height at Maturity | 15–25+ ft | 8–15 ft | 1–5 ft |
| Spread at Maturity | 10–20 ft | 6–12 ft | 2–6 ft |
| Flowering Period | 3–4 months, summer | 3–4 months, summer | 2–3 months, summer |
| Flower Colors | Red, White, Lavender | Pink, Red, Purple | Pink, Red, White |
| Sun Requirement | Full sun | Full sun | Full sun |
| Blooming Timeframe | June–September | June–September | June–September |
| Growth Rate | 2–3 ft/year | 1–2 ft/year | 1 ft/year |
| Cold Hardiness | Zones 6–10 | Zones 6–10 | Zones 7–10 |
| Root Type | Non-invasive, shallow | Non-invasive | Non-invasive |
| Notable Features | Exfoliating bark, size | Compact habit | Tiny size, groundcover |
Related Video
Conclusion
Crepe myrtles are a beloved choice for gardeners and homeowners, offering spectacular summer blooms, year-round beauty, and options for every landscape—large or small. Their adaptability, low maintenance, and wide variety of sizes and colors make them suitable for almost any outdoor project, from planting a statement tree to creating living hedges or adding container accents to patios. By understanding your specific needs and selecting the right crepe myrtle for your site, you’ll enjoy years of vibrant color and landscape value.
FAQ
-
What’s the difference between crepe myrtle trees and shrubs?
Crepe myrtles can be grown as single-trunk trees (tall, upright form) or multi-stem shrubs (bushy, rounded). Trees are used for shade and focal points, while shrubs are perfect for mass plantings, borders, or containers. -
When is the best time to plant crepe myrtles?
Early spring or fall is ideal, as milder temperatures help roots establish before the summer or winter extremes. Container-grown plants can be planted anytime ground isn’t frozen. -
How much sun do crepe myrtles need?
At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is required for the best blooms and healthy growth. Less sun results in fewer flowers. -
Are crepe myrtles low maintenance?
Yes! Once established, crepe myrtles are drought tolerant, disease and pest resistant, and need only minimal annual pruning. -
How do I prune a crepe myrtle for the best shape and flowers?
Remove only dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Avoid heavy “topping,” which can damage the plant and reduce flowers. -
Can crepe myrtles grow in pots or containers?
Dwarf and miniature varieties thrive in containers and patio pots—use a large enough pot with drainage and ensure full sun exposure.
-
Will crepe myrtle roots damage my sidewalk or foundation?
No. Crepe myrtles have shallow, fibrous roots that are non-invasive, making them safe to plant near paved areas. Maintain a 5–10 ft buffer for best results. -
What kind of fertilizer is best for crepe myrtles?
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer (8-8-8, 10-10-10) applied in early spring promotes both healthy foliage and flower production. Avoid high-nitrogen lawn fertilizers. -
Do crepe myrtles attract pests or diseases?
Crepe myrtles are generally trouble-free, though aphids and powdery mildew may occur, especially in dense plantings with poor air flow. Modern varieties offer improved resistance. -
How fast do crepe myrtles grow?
Most varieties grow at a medium-fast rate—about 2–3 feet per year for trees, and about 1–2 feet per year for shrubs and dwarfs. Growth depends on variety, soil, water, and sunlight.
By following these guidelines and considering your own gardening goals, you’ll be well on your way to a showstopping landscape filled with the charm and color of crepe myrtles.