The Beauty and Benefits of Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle

Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle: An

Are you looking for an easy-to-maintain, yet stunning tree to add to your garden? Look no further than the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle! This gorgeous ornamental tree has become increasingly popular due to its unique purple leaves and vibrant pink flowers. In this article, we will explore the beauty and benefits of the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle, and why it might be the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

What is a Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

The Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle, also known as Lagerstroemia indica 'Catawba,' is a deciduous ornamental tree that typically grows up to 20-30 feet tall and wide. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but has become widely cultivated in the United States due to its attractive foliage and showy blooms. As its name suggests, the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is characterized by its deep purple leaves, which turn fiery orange-red in the fall. Its flowers are also quite striking, with vibrant pink petals that bloom in mid to late summer.

Planting and Maintenance

If you're considering adding a Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle to your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to planting and maintenance:

Location

Choose a location that receives full sun exposure for at least six hours per day. The tree prefers well-drained soil, so make sure the planting site is not too wet or prone to flooding.

Planting

When planting a Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle, dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, and backfill the hole with a mixture of soil and compost. Water the tree thoroughly after planting.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water your Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle regularly during the first growing season to help establish the roots. After that, the tree is relatively drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for trees.

Benefits of the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle

Aside from its obvious aesthetic appeal, the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle offers several benefits:

Low Maintenance

The Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is relatively low maintenance compared to other ornamental trees. It does not require frequent pruning, and its hardy nature means it can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Disease Resistance

The Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is highly resistant to common diseases such as powdery mildew and Cercospora leaf spot. This means you won't have to worry about spraying pesticides on your tree to keep it healthy.

Attracts Wildlife

The vibrant pink flowers of the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle are a magnet for pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The tree's berries also provide a food source for birds.

Common Varieties

There are several different varieties of Crepe Myrtle, including many with purple foliage. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Lagerstroemia Indica 'Catawba'

This is the classic Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle, with deep purple leaves and vibrant pink flowers.

Lagerstroemia Indica 'Purple Magic'

This variety has slightly lighter purple leaves than the 'Catawba,' but still produces beautiful pink flowers.

Lagerstroemia Indica 'Twilight'

This variety has striking dark purple foliage that almost appears black, and produces deep pink flowers.

Common Questions About Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle

1. How often should I water my Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

During the first growing season, water your tree once a week to help establish the roots. After that, the tree is relatively drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering during periods of extended dryness.

2. How tall does a Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle grow?

The Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle typically grows up to 20-30 feet tall and wide.

3. Does the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle require pruning?

While the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle doesn't require frequent pruning, you may want to remove any dead or damaged branches in early spring.

4. Does the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle attract pollinators?

Yes, the vibrant pink flowers of the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle are a magnet for pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

5. Is the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle difficult to grow?

No, the Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is relatively easy to grow and maintain compared to other ornamental trees.

The Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is a beautiful and low-maintenance tree that can add a stunning pop of color to your garden. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just ing out, this ornamental tree is a great choice for anyone looking to add some beauty and benefits to their outdoor space.