Crepe Myrtle

Description:

Crepe Myrtles are among the world's best flowering trees. They are a genus of around 50 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Indian Subcontinent, southeast Asia, northern Australia and parts of Oceania, cultivated in warmer climates around the world, and are members of the Lythraceae family. A deciduous, vase-shaped tree about 6-8m (18-25') tall. It is often severely pruned and grown as a shrub 3-4m (10-12') tall. Trusses of white, pink, mauve or purple blooms appear in late summer. The petals are ruffled, with a crepe-like texture. In autumn the mid-green leaves turn yellow, orange or red (depending on the variety) before falling. Unpruned Crepe Myrtles develop beautifully coloured, smooth, mottled trunks.

Habitat:

Crepe Myrtles grow well in most parts of Australia, but particularly enjoy subtropical and tropical climates. In mountain zones, plants can do well in a warm, sheltered microclimate.

Notes:

This specimen is in my yard and never fails to deliver the fullest of colourful flowers each summer. It's a very hardy tree.