Top 10 Crepe Myrtle Varieties

Jun 26, 2024

Crepe myrtles are a summertime showstopper for anyone. Whenever I see the Crepe myrtles in my garden, it relaxes me. The Crepe myrtles bring vibrant blooms and lush foliage to your yard.

These low-maintenance beauties are a popular choice for homeowners across the country. But can you choose the right one among the many varieties available? It will feel complex. But I can inform you of the top 10 Crepe myrtle varieties and their overview to pick one.

So, I will guide you to the top 10 Crepe myrtle varieties in this blog so that you find the perfect addition to your landscape. No more delay; let’s hop into the guide and get your answers one-by-one!

What Do Crepe Myrtles Look Like?

Crepe myrtles are known for their clusters of crepe paper-like flowers that come in a stunning array of colors, from classic pinks and reds to vibrant lavenders and purples.

You all have seen crepe myrtles more than once in your life. Depending on the variety, they typically present dark green, glossy leaves. Not to mention that they can grow as shrubs or small trees.

I decorated my lawn and study room with these beautiful natural phenomena for this usefulness. Moreover, Crepe myrtles come in various colors to match the interior or exterior of the home.

Are There Any Varieties of Crepe Myrtle?

Yes, there are many varieties. Crepe myrtles come in multiple shapes, colors, and nature. Each variant has unique features like size, flower color, and bloom time. Now, you may ask me why this diversity exists, right? Crepe myrtles can blend with their surroundings pretty well. Also, this diversity allows you to find a Crepe myrtle that perfectly complements your landscaping needs.

Top 10 Crepe Myrtle Varieties

The top ten Crepe myrtle varieties are Natchez, Dynamite, Muskogee, Catawba, Apalachee, Pink Velour, Petite Pinkie, Centennial Spirit, Zuni, and Pocomoke.

Natchez

Massive, pure white flowers with a delicate, crepe-paper texture.
Reaches up to 30 feet tall and 15-18 feet wide at maturity.
Responds well to pruning for size control or bushier growth.
Thrives in warm climates (7-10) with full sun exposure.
Prefers well-drained soil and becomes drought tolerant once established.
Plant in spring after the danger of frost has gone away.
This variety boasts beautiful cinnamon-colored peeling bark, adding winter interest to your landscape.

Dynamite

Vibrant red, guaranteed to add a fiery punch to your landscape.
Reaches a manageable 10-15 feet tall, making it ideal for planting near walkways.
Upright and vase-shaped with a classic Crepe myrtle silhouette.
Thrives in zones 6-9 and tolerates slightly cooler climates than some varieties.
Disease-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a hassle-free bloomer.
Long blooming season from midsummer to early fall with extended summer color.
Plant in spring when the danger of frost has gone away for optimal growth.

Muskogee

Soft lavender-pink, adding a touch of elegance to your landscape.
Grows 10-15 feet tall, making it a good fit for medium-sized yards.
A top perk! The Muskogee is known for exceptional resistance to powdery mildew, a common Crepe myrtle problem.
Enjoys a long blooming season, lasting up to 4-5 months from early summer to fall.
Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-9, tolerating temperatures down to around 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed. Choose a location with full sun for optimal flowering.
Relatively low maintenance! Water deeply during the first growing season, then regularly during dry periods. Prune for shape in late winter or early spring.

Catawba

The large, crepe paper-like flowers create a cascading effect as they densely cover the branches.
Enjoy a vibrant transformation in fall as the green leaves morph into fiery shades of orange and red.
Once established, Catawba Crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant and relatively pest-resistant.
Showcase it as a stunning single-trunk tree or train it into a multi-trunk focal point.

Apalachee

This cold-hardy (zone 6) Crepe myrtle is a dream for smaller yards, reaching only 8-10 feet tall.
Perfect for patios or walkways, it offers a delightful fragrance and additional interest with its:
The cinnamon-tinged bark sheds in attractive patches, adding winter beauty.
The deep green leaves transform into vibrant orange-to-red hues in autumn.
Enjoy delicate lavender blooms throughout summer and early fall.

Pink Velour

This multi-season showstopper is beautiful, soft pink, velvety blooms (10-15 feet tall).
The leaves emerge a stunning burgundy red in spring, maturing to a rich purplish green in summer.
Fall brings another transformation with vibrant orange-brown foliage.
Pink Velour is a drought-tolerant and disease-resistant variety, perfect for busy gardeners.
Enjoy a dazzling display of blooms from midsummer to early fall.
Plant your Pink Velour in full sun (6-8 hours) with well-drained soil for optimal growth.

Petite Pinkie

Incredibly short, reaching only 3-5 feet tall.
Ideal for containers, walkways, or smaller gardens.
Covered in a profusion of bubblegum pink blooms that resemble crepe paper
Adds a burst of color throughout summer.
Dense and multi-stemmed, creating a beautiful mounded form that fills out nicely.
A champion for colder climates, thriving in zones as low as 6.
Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed for optimal growth.
Requires minimal care, and occasional deadheading encourages more blooms.

Centennial Spirit

This fiery favorite is a true head-turner with its vibrant red blooms
It matures to a stately 15-20 feet tall.
Great choice for larger yards or planting along a fence line.
This adaptable variety thrives in zones 7-10 and is relatively low-maintenance.
Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed for the best results.

Zuni

Stands out from the crowd with its captivating blooms.
Reaches 8-10 feet tall and is perfect for smaller yards or as an accent plant.
Thrives in zones 7-9, tolerating slightly cooler climates than some varieties.
Enjoy vibrant flowers throughout the summer and into fall.
Like most Crepe myrtles, Zuni requires minimal care once established.
This unique color combination will turn heads and add a touch of whimsy to your landscape.

Pocomoke

This superstar packs a punch in a small package!
Ideal for containers, borders, or smaller gardens.
A burst of color that adds cheer to any space.
Tolerates colder temperatures than many Crepe myrtles.
Requires minimal pruning and thrives with spring planting.
The leaves turn a beautiful bronze-red in autumn for added seasonal interest.

Which Crepe Myrtle Variant is the Best?

One thing I get asked pretty often from my readers. Which one is the best among all variants? But I could not give them an exact answer. In fact, the “best” Crepe myrtle variety depends entirely on your needs and preferences.

When you choose the Crepe myrtle, consider factors like desired size, flower color, and cold hardiness. Feel free to consult with a local nursery professional for personalized recommendations. I have some guides on Crepe Myrtles on this website; you can check those, too.

Best Crap Myrtle by Size

You already know that Crepe myrtles are beloved for their vibrant blooms and adaptability, but choosing the right variety for your space can be tough. But don’t worry; I have compiled expert recommendations from Texas and national Crepe myrtle specialists to help you find the perfect fit!

Dwarf Crepe Myrtles (3-5 ft.)

The smallest Crepe myrtles are ideal for containers, borders, or smaller gardens.

Red: Petite Red Imp, Petite Red Embers
Pink: Petite Pinkie, Pokemoke
Lavender: Petite Orchid
Purple: Petite Plum, Centennial, Velma’s Royal Delight
White: Petite Snow

Intermediate Crepe Myrtles (5-10 ft.)

5 to 10-foot Crepe myrtles are perfect for adding pops of color without overwhelming smaller yards.

Red: Cheyenne, Tonto
Pink: Hopi, Pecos
Purple: Zuni
White: Acoma, White Chocolate

Medium Crepe Myrtles (10-20 ft.)

10 to 20-foot Crepe myrtles are a beautiful choice for larger landscapes, providing shade and a stunning display.

Red: Centennial Spirit, Dynamite
Pink: Osage, Pink Velour, Seminole, Tuskegee
Lavender: Apalachee, Lipan, Yuma
Purple: Catawba, Powhatan

Tall Crepe Myrtles (over 20 ft.)

The tallest Crepe myrtles make a bold statement with these majestic trees.

Red: Arapaho, Red Rocket
Pink: Biloxi, Choctaw, Potomac
Purple: Twilight
White: Fantasy, Glendora White, Kiowa, Sarah’s Favorite White, Townhouse

Best Crepe Myrtle by Color

Within each size category, you’ll find a variety of vibrant colors to match your taste. Explore reds, pinks, lavenders, purples, and even whites to create a breathtaking landscape.

Which Crepe Myrtle Grows the Fastest?

The crown goes to ‘Basham’s Party Pink’! This vigorous variety splashes an impressive 12 to 15-foot growth rate annually, making it a standout choice for those wondering how fast crepe myrtle grow. However, keep its mature size (up to 30 feet) in mind when choosing a planting location.

Another fast grower is the ‘Red Rocket’ crepe myrtle, which reaches 3 to 8 feet annually. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy blooms sooner but prefer a more manageable size.

Can I Change the Color of My Crepe Myrtle Blooms?

Unfortunately, Crepe myrtles won’t magically transform their bloom color based on soil pH, unlike hydrangeas. The blooms are genetically determined, so choosing a variety with the color that best suits your taste is important. Researching different varieties beforehand ensures you get the perfect pop of color in your landscape.

When to Buy the Best Crepe Myrtle Variants?

Do you know that there’s a secret weapon for crepe myrtle’s success? Forget spring shopping and buy them in late summer. This season is important because you will witness the vibrant display firsthand. Picking a variety in full bloom ensures you get the perfect pop of color for your landscape.

Plant them right away, or wait for cooler fall weather. The main key to survival in hot weather is consistent watering. Once established, your crepe myrtle will be much more tolerant of drier conditions. This simple trick sets you up for success and a stunning summer show next year!

Conclusion

Crepe myrtles offer a dazzling array of colors and sizes, making them a versatile addition to any landscape. Considering the top varieties and your specific needs, you can find the perfect crepe myrtle to bring summer beauty to your yard for years. From the majestic stature of the Natchez to the compact beauty of the Pocomoke, these top 10 selections exemplify the versatility and beauty of this beloved flowering tree. By carefully selecting the right variety and providing proper care, gardeners can enjoy the enduring charm and elegance that Crepe Myrtles bring to outdoor spaces throughout the seasons.

FAQs

What is the most popular color of Crepe myrtle?

Crepe myrtles come in a vibrant range, but shades of pink and red reign supreme! These popular colors add a burst of cheer and complement many landscaping styles.

How many varieties of Crepe myrtle are there?

Crepe Myrtles offer surprising diversity. There are about 50 wild species besides the omnes in our gardens. These wild ancestors were selectively bred to create the stunning and varied crepe myrtles we enjoy today.

Where do Crepe myrtles grow best?

Crepe myrtles love the touch of the sun’s rays! To see them burst into bloom, choose a spot bathed in sunlight for most of the day. Your Crepe myrtle will be this light for vibrant flowers and proper growth. Avoid shady areas, which might leave your Crepe myrtle feeling gloomy. Lastly, skip the flower show altogether.

How do you make Crepe myrtles grow faster?

When new leaves emerge, prepare to fertilize in spring in spring to accelerate their growth. Choose your preferred method like liquid, slow-release, or granules. Then, feed them lightly every two weeks throughout the spring and summer.

Do Crepe myrtles require a lot of maintenance?

Crepe myrtles are generally low-maintenance trees. They benefit from occasional pruning in late winter or early spring to maintain shape. They thrive with regular watering, especially in hot weather, but become more drought-tolerant once established.

Do Crepe Myrtle varieties attract pests or diseases?

While Crepe Myrtle trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, they can occasionally be affected by aphids, powdery mildew, or scale insects. Regular inspection and proper care can help prevent and manage these problems.