Light. Flowers and grows best in full sun.
Water. Water new plantings regularly for the first few weeks. Once established it is extremely drought tolerant.
Soil and feeding. Tolerates sand, clay, alkaline or acidic soil if it drains well. Fertilizer needs are low; extra fertilizer and water mostly produce lush leaves.
Size. Usually 15–25 ft tall.
Pruning. It needs little pruning. In late winter, remove crossing, dead or low limbs as needed. Avoid topping, called crape murder; it delays and reduces flowers and leaves weak, sprouting branches.
Problems to watch. Aphids on new growth leave black sooty mold; spray Insecticidal Soap. Powdery mildew can be serious on susceptible types.
Good to know. Deciduous, with smooth tan-orange bark that flakes in patches. It has moderate tolerance of salt spray.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS ENH-501/ST342: Lagerstroemia indica, Crapemyrtle · UF/IFAS EDIS EP399: Crapemyrtle Pruning · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Crapemyrtle
