Lagerstroemia indica is a widely cultivated single or multi-trunked tree, effective as a flowering or foliage accent. This deciduous, vase-shaped tree blooms best in full sun when it receives moderate moisture. It has handsome peeled bark and a colorful summer bloom. The leaves turn a striking orange to red in fall, and boast reddish new growth. This species has many named varieties with varying flower colors, which usually grow to 25 or less and include: Glendora White, Near East, Seminole and Watermelon Red.

Native Range: China

Horticultural use: Screen or Hedged

Ethnobotanical Info / Tree

Tree Shape: Rounded or Vase
Foliage Type: Deciduous
Maximum Tree Height: 25 feet
Canopy Width: 25feet
Growth Rate: ~24in/year
Leaf Arrangement and Form: Alternate and Simple
Leaf Shape: Oval
Leaf Color: Bronze, Purple or Reddish
Fall Color: Yes
Flowers: Showy
Flower Color: Lavender, Pink, Red or Rose
Flower Time: Summer
Fruit Size and Color: Small Brown Capsule
Fruiting Time: Fall
Bark Color: Striking, Light Green, Pink or Red Brown
Bark Texture: Exfoliating and Smooth
Litter Type: Dry Fruit

Recommended Planting Area: 2′ to 4′
Water Use Rating: Low
Sunset Climate Zone: 7 – 10, 12 – 14, 18 – 21, H1 and H2
Soil Texture: Loam, Sand or Clay
Soil pH: Very Acidic to Slightly Alkaline
Salt Tolerance: Low
Schoolyard Trees: No
Shade Tolerance: No

Branch Strength: Medium
Root Damage Potential: Low
Potential health issues: None Known
Biogenic Emissions: Low
Wildlife Interactions: Attracts Birds
Disease and Pest Susceptibility: Powdery Mildew, Sooty Mold and Aphids
Disease and Pest Resistance: Texas Root Rot, Armillaria and Root Rot
Utility Friendly: Yes
WCISA Appraisal: Suggested LCANT 24″ box, Group Rating 1, Approx. cross sectional area 2.09 sq. in.