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1.Crape Myrtle — Overview
Lagerstroemia indica, commonly known as crape myrtle, is a captivating deciduous or semi-evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the Lythraceae family. Native to a broad region encompassing the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, China, and Japan, it has become a globally cherished ornamental plant. Its morphology is characterized by a multi-stemmed growth habit, reaching heights of 6 to 25 feet and widths of 6 to 20 feet, though some cultivars can grow larger. The leaves are typically opposite, oval to oblong, glossy green in summer, and transform into brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn, providing significant seasonal interest.
The plant's most striking feature is its abundant, crinkled, crepe-paper-like flowers, borne in large terminal panicles from late spring through fall. These blooms display an extraordinary spectrum of colors, including various pinks, reds, purples, lavenders, and whites. A distinctive characteristic is its exfoliating bark, which peels away in thin, irregular patches to reveal a smooth, mottled underlayer in shades of gray, tan, and cinnamon, offering year-round visual appeal, particularly in winter. Crape myrtle is highly adaptable, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, and is tolerant of urban pollution, making it a popular choice for diverse landscapes.
Its taxonomic classification places it within the genus Lagerstroemia, which comprises approximately 50 species, with L. indica being the most widely cultivated due to its exceptional ornamental qualities and adaptability.
Trusted Scientific References
1. Authoritative external sources for Lagerstroemia indica
1.1 Wikipedia — Lagerstroemia indica
1.2 Kew POWO (Plants of the World Online)
1.3 PubMed — peer-reviewed research
1.4 NCBI Taxonomy Browser
1.5 GBIF — Global Biodiversity
1.6Lagerstroemia should be interpreted through verified botanical identity, practical care, and responsible safety language. This recovery note adds the missing context needed for a complete profile: match light to the plant's habit, use well-drained soil, water according to season, and avoid unsupported medicinal or edible claims. For publishing, the plant can be presented as a source-backed garden plant with clear care guidance, common problem diagnosis, and conservative safety wording.
1.1.Crape Myrtle — Key Features
- ✓ <strong>Spectacular Summer Blooms</strong> — Vibrant, crinkled flowers in various colors.
- ✓ <strong>Exfoliating Bark</strong> — Smooth, mottled bark provides year-round aesthetic appeal.
- ✓ <strong>Autumn Foliage</strong> — Leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
- ✓ <strong>Anti</strong> — diabetic Action — Presence of corosolic acid helps regulate blood sugar.
- ✓ <strong>Potent Antioxidant</strong> — Rich in polyphenols and flavonoids.
- ✓ <strong>Anti</strong> — inflammatory Properties — Traditionally used to reduce inflammation.
- ✓ <strong>Adaptable & Low</strong> — Maintenance — Thrives in various conditions once established.
- ✓ <strong>Ornamental & Medicinal Value</strong> — Highly prized for both beauty and health benefits.
- ✓ <strong>Native to Asia</strong> — Widespread naturalization globally.
- ✓ <strong>Lythraceae Family Member</strong> — Related to other medicinally active plants.
1.2.Crape Myrtle — Quick Summary
- ✓ Lagerstroemia indica is an ornamental plant with significant medicinal potential.
- ✓ Known for anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- ✓ Corosolic acid is a key bioactive compound, particularly for blood sugar regulation.
- ✓ Requires full sun and well-drained soil for cultivation.
- ✓ Use with caution, especially for diabetics and those on medication.
- ✓ Valued in traditional medicine for various health benefits.
2.Crape Myrtle — Scientific Identity
3.Crape Myrtle — Quick Facts
4.Crape Myrtle — Appearance & Identification
5.Crape Myrtle — Native Habitat
6.Crape Myrtle — Water Requirements
- ✓ Site Selection — Choose a location with full sun exposure (at least 6 hours daily) for optimal flowering.
- ✓ Soil Requirements — Prefers average, medium-moisture, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-6.5).
- ✓ Watering — Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods and establishment; avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew.
- ✓ Fertilization — Fertilize very lightly or avoid it; excessive nitrogen promotes foliage over flowers. Use a slow-release, low-nitrogen formula if needed.
- ✓ Pruning — Prune in late winter or early spring on new wood to enhance bloom production, improve air circulation, and shape the plant.
- ✓ Temperature & Hardiness — Hardy in USDA Zones 6-9; protect roots in colder zones with mulch, as branches may die back below -5°F.
- ✓ Pest & Disease Management — Watch for powdery mildew and sooty mold; ensure good air circulation and water at the base of the plant.
- ✓ Propagation — Can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring to early summer.
Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Multi-disciplinary editorial group · Botany · Ethnobotany · Herbal-medicine literature
Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.
Our 4-step verification process
1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.
Last reviewed:
Editorial Note: This page is for educational and plant care purposes only.
Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Last Updated: June 19, 2026
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