All You Need to Know About Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle

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All You Need to Know About Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle

If you are a garden enthusiast and want to add something unique to your garden, then Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is just the plant for you. In this post, we will discuss all you need to know about Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle.

What is Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is an ornamental tree that is known for its beautiful purple leaves and vibrant flowers. It is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves each autumn, but it more than makes up for it in the summer months with stunning purple foliage and brightly colored flowers.

Why Grow Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

There are several benefits of growing Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle in your garden. Firstly, it adds a unique color contrast to your greenery. Secondly, they are easy to grow and maintain, so you won't have to worry too much about dedicating time and effort to this beautiful plant. Additionally, the flowers of the plant attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

What Makes Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle Special?

Besides being visually appealing, Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle has a rich significance in Japanese culture. According to legend, purple was thought to signify nobility and royalty, making this ornamental tree a symbol of high status.

Growing Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle may seem daunting initially, but by following simple guidelines, anyone can grow and care for this beautiful plant.

1. Choose a Sunny and Warm Location

Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle thrives in warm climates, so be sure to choose a sunny location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. Ensure that the area has enough space for the plant to grow and extend its branches.

2. Provide Adequate Water

Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle needs consistent watering during the first year after planting. Afterward, infrequent deep watering (once every 7-10 days) is necessary. Be careful not to overwater as it may lead to root rot, fungal diseases, or even death.

3. Prune Regularly

Pruning helps stimulate healthy growth and maintain the desired size and shape of the plant. The best time to prune is during late winter to early spring when the plant is dormant.

4. Fertilize Every Year

Annual fertilizing of Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle keeps the plant healthy and promotes growth. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer to get the best results.

There are several varieties of Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle, and each one has its unique characteristics. Here are some of them:

1. Catawba

Catawba Crepe Myrtle variety grows up to 20 feet tall and has dark purplish-red flowers.The leaves are thick, large, and glossy with bronze-green coloring in the new growth.

2. Tuscarora

Tuscarora Crepe Myrtle is known for its large blooms that start as pink buds and later turn into coral-pink flowers. The leaves show a bright salmon-colored flush during spring, maturing into a deep green color.

3. Muskogee

This variety turns heads with its show-stopping pale lavender flowers as it grows up to 20-30 feet tall. Its bronzy new growth fades to a bluish-green shade, adding another element of interest to your landscape.

4. Natchez

Natchez Crepe Myrtles grow up to 30 feet tall and bloom white flowers during the summer season. Their cinnamon-brown bark peels away to reveal a light grey-white shade beneath.

5. Dynamite

Dynamite Crepe Myrtle’s fiery red flowers make it stand out. This variety grows up to 20 feet and offers burgundy autumnal foliage to complement its crimson blossoms.

Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle is a stunning ornamental tree that is easy to cultivate and adds a unique hue to your garden. By following these simple tips, you can grow and maintain this beautiful plant with ease, and enjoy its beauty for years to come!

Here are some frequently asked questions about Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle:

What is the best time of year to plant Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

Spring is the ideal time to plant Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle.

How often should I water Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

During the plant's first year, watering twice a week is recommended. However, after the first year, once a week should suffice.

Do I need to prune Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle? If so, how often?

Yes, pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's size and shape. Late winter or early spring is the best time to prune.

What kind of fertilizer should I use on Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

A balanced slow-release fertilizer works best. Apply it once a year during the growing season.

What is the ideal pH for the soil in which to plant Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle?

The optimal pH level for soil planted with Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle should be between 5.5 and 6.5.

Does Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle attract bees and butterflies?

Yes, the flowers of Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Can Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle grow in containers?

No, this plant requires adequate space and soil nutrition to thrive.

How long does Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle typically live?

With proper care, Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle can live up to fifty years!

Is Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle deer-resistant?

While it’s not completely resistant, the texture or scent of the foliage might deter deer from feeding on the tree.

What other plants pair well with Purple Foliage Crepe Myrtle in a garden?

Other colorful plants such as hydrangeas, azaleas, and roses would compliment the purple foliage of crepe myrtle beautifully.