Lagerstroemia

Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crepe myrtle! It’s a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Lythraceae. These plants are known for their beautiful, vibrant flowers and attractive bark.

Here are some key points about Lagerstroemia (crepe myrtle):

1. Flowers: Lagerstroemia plants bloom in summer, producing large clusters of colorful flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, and white. The flowers have a crinkled appearance, which is how they get the name “crepe” myrtle.

2. Varieties: There are many different species and cultivars, with varying sizes from small shrubs to large trees. Some common types are the Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) and Southern Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia fauriei).

3. Bark: One distinctive feature is its smooth, mottled bark that peels away in strips, giving it a unique appearance throughout the year.

4. Hardiness: Lagerstroemia is well-suited for warm climates and is commonly found in the southern United States. However, some varieties can tolerate cooler climates as well.

5. Uses: Crepe myrtles are often used in landscaping for their aesthetic value, providing both beauty in bloom and attractive foliage in the fall.