Why are crepe myrtles hated?

Why are crepe myrtles hated?

Along with rose of Sharon and hardy hibiscus, crape myrtles are your go-to plants of summer. A common reason cited by people who dislike crape myrtles is that they’re “ugly.” Generally, someone who thinks crape myrtles are ugly hasn’t seen a beautiful specimen that’s been well-pruned.

Are crepe myrtles indigenous to Texas?

Although native to South Asia, crape myrtles have been cultivated in North America since the 18th century. The species most commonly found in North Texas is Lagerstroemia indica, which can flower in a range of colors.

Where is the crape myrtle from?

The common crapemyrtle is a native of China and Korea. It is called the “lilac of the South.” The number of cultivars is enormous. Among these, the U.S. National Arboretum introductions are important for their disease resistance, good flowering, and ornamental bark.

What zones do crepe myrtles grow?

All crape myrtles are sun lovers, generally cold hardy in Zones 7-10, although there are some that will work in Zone 6 as well. They are extremely heat-tolerant and quite drought-tolerant once established.

Do birds eat crepe myrtle berries?

The attractive seed heads that weigh down your crepe myrtle branches in winter contain seeds that wild birds love to eat. As fall approaches, the berries develop into seed heads. Each seed head holds tiny brown seeds.

Is crepe myrtle an invasive plant?

Crepe myrtle trees are lovely, delicate trees offering bright, spectacular flowers in the summer and beautiful fall color when the weather begins to chill. You don’t have to worry about this issue because crepe myrtle tree roots are not invasive.

What colors are crepe myrtle?

Flowers come in a variety of colours, from deep reds, to hot pinks, purples and white. Foliage: Most varieties colour well in autumn with leaf colours ranging from bright red, deep maroon, vibrant yellow, pink and burnt orange, all on the one tree.

What can I substitute for crepe myrtle?

A few alternatives to consider include American witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), Ozark witch-hazel (Hamamelis vernalis) and other witch-hazels, Carolina silverbell (Halesia carolina), flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa), blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium), sarvisberry/serviceberry …

Which crape myrtle is the best?

Natchez is recognized as the top performing crape myrtle in the southeastern United States. It was introduced by the U. S. National Arboretum in 1987. White flowers and exfoliating bark are characteristic of this cultivar, which reaches heights of 30 feet at maturity.

What is the hardiest crape myrtle?

Cold Hardy Crepe Myrtle Crepe myrtle in full bloom may offer more flowers than any other garden tree. But most are labeled for planting in zone 7 or above. The canopies survive down to 5 degrees F.

Are crepe myrtles toxic to dogs?

Many beautiful plants contain toxins that present a danger to puppies and other animals. However, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that crepe myrtle is perfectly safe and non-toxic for animals, as well as humans.

What happens if you don’t prune crepe myrtles?

Many varieties have beautiful bark and growth habits that can be enjoyed all year if trees are not heavily pruned. This unsightly, ugly pruning known as crape murder is not recommended. Once it’s done, it ruins the tree’s graceful natural shape for the rest of its life.

Where to find the best crape myrtles in Texas?

Looking for a new crape myrtle? We’ll help you choose. We’ve polled the experts, and we have a list of the best varieties by size and color. Take a look. » Welcome to McKinney, home of The Crape Myrtle Trails!

Why are crape myrtles good for a foundation?

Crape myrtles are relatively suitable for foundations and walkways because the roots are not strong nor damaging to fixed structures. They form large networks of fine, fibrous roots rather than large, heavy penetrating surface or tap roots.

When do crape myrtles bloom in McKinney Texas?

Welcome to McKinney, home of The Crape Myrtle Trails! but we also love visitors. Come see our crape myrtles! In flower June-August. Peak bloom late June and early July. Fall color in November.

What’s the difference between Japanese crape myrtle and L indica?

Flowers are as large as those of L. indica, but are white with only the slightest pink flush appearing in some individuals. Japanese crape myrtle is hardier to cold than many strains of L. indica, a characteristic (along with fungal resistance, tree form and colorful bark) that makes it valuable as genetic material…