Largest Size of Crape Myrtles

Large Varieties

• Many of the readily available and top-performing varieties of crape myrtles are intended for use as small trees. These types of crape myrtles are considered large varieties. When provided ideal growing conditions, all will reach and possibly exceed 30 feet in height. Natchez, Muskogee, Fantasy, Choctaw, Biloxi and Tuscarora are a few of the more prevalent and disease-resistant large crape myrtle varieties. Crape myrtles grow at a fairly fast rate and have a long lifespan. Some of the tall varieties may average 2 feet or more of growth annually.

Pruning

• Pruning can improve the structure of plants as well as alter the size, shape, and physical appearance of plants. Crape myrtle growth is so vigorous that it can quickly regrow to its original size within the year, even after hard pruning. Proper cultivar selection of a well-sited crape myrtles require little to no regular pruning. Many new cultivars do not even require tip pruning because they naturally repeat-bloom. Avoid severely topping-off crape myrtles. This common pruning practice promotes immediate lush growth but destroys the natural, delicate vegetative form of the plant.

Site Selection

• Keep in the mind the potential size of a mature crape myrtle before planting. Crape myrtles require full sun for prolific flowering and symmetrical crown development. In general, crape myrtles have a wide-spreading form and must not be placed too close to shade-producing structures. Instead, consider placing crape myrtles along sidewalks, fence lines or within more centralized planting beds. For best results, plant crape myrtles in loamy, slightly acidic, well-drained soil.

Landscape Use

• Crape myrtles serve a diverse set of functions within the landscape. Select a crape myrtle variety with physical characteristics, as well as mature form and size, that will fulfill your intended landscape use. Improper variety selection, particularly in the case of large varieties, may necessitate frequent pruning just to prevent the plant from outgrowing a designated space. Larger single and multi-stemmed crape myrtles make excellent flowering specimens. Grouped shrub forms are effective yard accents. Dwarf varieties are excellent, attention-grabbing perennial bedding plants or hanging baskets.