Leaves
Crape Myrtle leaves are deciduous, oval, and smooth. They are usually arranged alternately, but may be opposite. Leaf size depends on variety.

Flowers
The big, showy flower clusters of the Crape Myrtle are what makes this tree so popular. The individual flowers are ruffled, delicate, and crinkly to the touch. Flowers last from 65-120 days. Flowers of some species may stain car paint.

Fruit
Crape Myrtle fruit appear after the flowers begin to drop. The fruit is oval and brown or black in color. When mature, the dry capsules split and the seeds are released.

Bark
The bark of the Crape Myrtle is mottled and smooth. With age, the grey bark exfoliates to reveal a redish-brown color underneath.

Propagation
By cuttings from medium wood in early fall or hard wood in winter. Also by seed. Easy to root.

Landscape usage
Excellent for urban or suburban, formal or informal landscapes and areas where soil is limited. Crepe Myrtle trees are useful in the middle or corners of lawns as they make magnificent specimen trees. Dwarf varieties are also available so placement can be more diverse. Multiple crapes, especially of the same color but different heights can be quite effective. A cluster of Crapes planted close together will give a canopy of flowers all summer long.

Interesting Facts
Commercial nurseries sometimes plant Crape Myrtle trees around their borders to attract the insects away from the other plants. Scientists are currently developing cultures that are aphid and mildew resistant.

One of the 250 different varities of Crape Myrtle.
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Crape Myrtle flowers

For more detailed information on this plant go to:
Volusia Extension

Crape Myrtle bark. Note how it exfoliates.