Crapemyrtle

Edward F. Gilman

This document provides an overview of the ‘Tonto’ crape myrtle, a popular small tree known for its striking summer flowers, attractive fall foliage, and high drought tolerance. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its growth habits, leaf and flower features, and soil and light requirements. The document also discusses the plant’s uses in landscaping, its pruning needs, and its resistance to pests and diseases. Additionally, it highlights various cultivars of crape myrtle, noting their specific attributes and resistance to common issues like powdery mildew.  Original publication date October 1999. 

Matthew Borden, Matthew Borden, Xavier Martini, andAdam G. Dale

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Edward F. Gilman, Deborah Hilbert, Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan Klein, Andrew Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, andDrew C. McLean

Edward F. Gilman, Deborah Hilbert, Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan Klein, Andrew Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, andDrew C. McLean

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the ‘New Orleans’ crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘New Orleans’), highlighting its features and uses. It describes the plant’s growth habits, including its height, spread, and leaf characteristics. The document also covers its flowering and fruiting patterns, soil and light requirements, and drought tolerance. Additionally, it discusses the plant’s susceptibility to pests and diseases, as well as recommended pruning practices. Various cultivars of crape myrtle are mentioned, noting their specific attributes and resistance to common issues like powdery mildew. The document emphasizes the plant’s suitability for urban and suburban landscapes, particularly in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 9. Original publication date October 1999.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the ‘New Orleans’ crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘New Orleans’), highlighting its characteristics, planting requirements, and uses. It details the plant’s growth habits, including its height, spread, and leaf arrangement, as well as its seasonal attributes such as summer flowering and attractive fall foliage. The document also discusses the plant’s tolerance to various soil types and drought conditions, its susceptibility to pests and diseases, and recommended pruning practices. Additionally, it mentions several cultivars of crape myrtle, noting their specific features and resistance to common issues like powdery mildew. Original publication date October 1999.

Juanita Popenoe, Caroline R. Warwick, Caroline R. Warwick, andChris Marble
Other Contacts: Brooke L. Moffis

This publication helps identify the most common pests found on the Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia). Crapemyrtle are known for being one of the most pest-free landscape plants. This publication provides information and general management recommendations for the crapemyrtle aphid, metallic beetles and powdery mildew. 

Gary W. Knox, Edward F. Gilman, Teagan Young, Ryan W. Klein, and Leynar Leyton

Pruning is one of the most controversial aspects of maintaining crapemyrtle. Traditionally, many crapemyrtles were routinely topped, leaving large branch and stem stubs. This practice has been called "crape murder" because most people dislike the winter appearance and many professionals believe the practice impacts crapemyrtle health and structural integrity. UF/IFAS research has clarified the effects of various crapemyrtle pruning practices that resulted in the recommendations in this publication.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the Sioux crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia x ‘Sioux’), highlighting its characteristics, planting requirements, and uses. It details the tree’s attractive features, including its summer flower color, fall foliage, and drought tolerance. The document also covers its growth habits, soil and light preferences, and maintenance tips. Additionally, it discusses the tree’s resistance to pests and diseases, and mentions various cultivars with their specific traits. The Sioux crape myrtle is recommended for urban and suburban landscapes due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. Original publication date October 1999.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the Pecos Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia x ‘Pecos’), highlighting its striking summer flower color, attractive fall foliage, and good drought tolerance. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its height, spread, leaf arrangement, and flower color. The document also discusses the plant’s growth requirements, such as light and soil preferences, and its resistance to pests and diseases. Additionally, it covers pruning techniques and the plant’s suitability for various landscape uses, making it a valuable resource for urban and suburban planting. Original publication date October 1999.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the ‘Delta Blush’ crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Delta Blush’), highlighting its characteristics, planting requirements, and maintenance tips. It details the plant’s growth habits, including its height, spread, and seasonal features such as summer flowers and fall foliage. The document also discusses the plant’s adaptability to various soil types and its drought tolerance, making it suitable for urban and suburban landscapes. Additionally, it addresses common pests and diseases, offering guidance on selecting resistant cultivars and proper pruning techniques to maintain plant health and aesthetics. Original publication date October 1999.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the ‘Apalachee’ crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia x ‘Apalachee’), highlighting its features, planting requirements, and uses. The tree is noted for its striking summer flowers, attractive fall foliage, and high drought tolerance. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 9A and is suitable for various urban and suburban landscaping applications. The document also discusses the tree’s growth habits, soil and light preferences, pruning guidelines, and pest resistance. Additionally, it mentions several cultivars with varying flower colors and disease resistance.

John Herbert and Russ F. Mizell

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan W. Klein, and Deborah R. Hilbert

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.