Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)
Crepe Myrtle, known as Lagerstroemia, thrives in UK gardens and adds vibrant colour and texture to landscapes. It offers stunning summer blooms, smooth bark, and striking foliage. With sizes ranging from small shrubs to medium-sized trees, Crepe Myrtle fits into various garden styles. Use it as a standout feature, focal point, or part of a colourful hedge.
Why Choose Lagerstroemia for Your Garden?
Lagerstroemia dazzles with flowers in shades of pink, white, red, and purple that last throughout summer. Its colourful blooms create eye-catching displays, while the bark peels to reveal a smooth, mottled surface. This plant also brings autumn beauty with its golden yellow or red foliage, adding interest even after the flowers fade.
Key Features and Benefits of Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia offers dense growth and resists many common pests. Once established, it requires minimal care. It thrives in well-drained soil and sunny locations, where it blooms abundantly. This drought-tolerant plant adapts well to hedging, providing privacy and acting as a wind barrier.
Versatile Uses of Crepe Myrtle
Crepe Myrtle suits a variety of garden styles, from formal to cottage-style landscapes. As a hedge, it adds structure and vibrant colour. Its upright growth makes it ideal for lining driveways and borders. Shaped through pruning, Crepe Myrtle also works well as a topiary or small garden tree. Larger varieties, like Lagerstroemia indica, serve as elegant specimen trees, perfect for parks and larger gardens.
Easy Maintenance and Care
Lagerstroemia needs minimal care after establishment. Prune it lightly in late winter to encourage more flowers and maintain shape. Regular pruning prevents leggy growth. The plant flourishes in well-drained soil and full sun, rewarding you with strong growth and extended blooms. Lagerstroemia also shows resilience to diseases and pests, ensuring that it remains a reliable, low-maintenance addition to any garden.

Lagerstroemia offers year-round interest with its brilliant flowers, colourful foliage, and sculptural branches. Whether used as a vibrant hedge, decorative small tree, or striking topiary, this adaptable plant enhances gardens with beauty and structure.