crepe myrtle species chart

Crepe Myrtle Species Chart: A Comprehensive Guide

By Kevin RodriguezApril 9, 2026

Crepe myrtles, with their vibrant summer blooms and elegant, peeling bark, are a staple in many landscapes. But with over 90 species, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Let's explore the crepe myrtle species chart, delving into their unique characteristics, growth habits, and ideal growing conditions.

Crepe myrtles, native to Asia and Australia, are known for their clusters of crinkled, crepe-like flowers and attractive exfoliating bark. They thrive in warm climates and are popular for their low-maintenance nature and ability to tolerate heat and humidity. Now, let's dive into the world of crepe myrtle species.

Popular Crepe Myrtle Species

Several crepe myrtle species are widely cultivated for their beauty and hardiness. Here, we'll discuss two popular species and their notable cultivars.

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Lagerstroemia indica

L. indica, native to China and Japan, is the most commonly cultivated species. It's known for its large, showy flower clusters and fast growth rate. Let's explore some popular cultivars:

Lagerstroemia indica 'Natchez': A favorite for its large, white blooms and fast growth. It's also known for its tolerance to heat and humidity.
Lagerstroemia indica 'Muskogee': This cultivar is prized for its deep purple blooms and compact size, making it ideal for smaller landscapes.

Lagerstroemia fauriei

L. fauriei, native to Japan, is another popular species. It's known for its smaller size and tolerance to cooler temperatures. Here are two notable cultivars:

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Lagerstroemia fauriei 'Tuscarora': This cultivar is loved for its deep purple blooms and ability to tolerate cooler temperatures, making it a good choice for northern climates.
Lagerstroemia fauriei 'Sioux': 'Sioux' is a compact grower with lavender blooms. It's also known for its tolerance to cooler temperatures.

Crepe Myrtle Growth Habits and Care

Understanding crepe myrtle growth habits and care needs is crucial for their success in your landscape.

Growth Habits

Crepe myrtles are deciduous trees or large shrubs, growing up to 25 feet tall, depending on the species and cultivar. They're known for their attractive, exfoliating bark, which peels in papery strips, revealing new colors underneath.

Care Needs

Crepe myrtles are relatively low-maintenance, but they do have specific care needs:

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Sunlight: They require full sun, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Water: Once established, crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently.
Soil: They prefer well-draining soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and remove dead or crossed branches. Some species may require renewal pruning every few years to maintain their health and vigor.

Incorporating crepe myrtles into your landscape can add a vibrant pop of color and texture. With their wide range of species and cultivars, there's a crepe myrtle for every landscape. So, why not explore the crepe myrtle species chart today and find the perfect one for your garden?