Japanese crepe myrtle is a multi-stemmed deciduous tree native to southern Japan that brings understated elegance to temperate gardens. Hardy from zones 6 through 10, it matures to 20-35 feet tall with an equally generous spread, developing a rounded to vase-shaped canopy. The real showstopper is the exfoliating cinnamon-colored bark that reveals itself as the tree ages, paired with glossy, thick leaves and delicate white flowers held in 3-4 inch panicles that bloom from June through August. Once established, it shrugs off drought and adapts to clay soil just as easily as sandy loam, asking for little more than full sun and moderate water.
Full Sun
Moderate
6-10
420in H x 420in W
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Moderate
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The exfoliating cinnamon bark is what stops people in their tracks during winter, when many trees fade into gray monotony. White summer flowers arrive in dense panicles and persist through August, while the thick, glossy foliage maintains its composure even in heat and dry spells. Its ability to thrive in clay soil without complaint sets it apart from fussier ornamentals, and its low maintenance needs make it a genuine joy to grow.
This tree serves as a landscape specimen, valued for its ornamental bark, summer flowers, and four-season visual interest. It functions well as a focal point in the garden, screening, or in groves where its multi-stemmed form can be fully appreciated.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Prune lightly in spring to remove any winter-damaged top growth, particularly in zone 6 where injury may occur. Beyond that, this tree needs minimal intervention and develops its natural rounded to vase-shaped form with little guidance. Remove dead wood and crossing branches to maintain an open canopy and showcase the attractive exfoliating bark.
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“Lagerstroemia fauriei originates from southern Japan, where it evolved as a species distinct from its more commonly cultivated cousin, Lagerstroemia indica. Japanese crepe myrtle represents one of two most popular species in the Lagerstroemia genus, valued for its hardiness and ornamental qualities in temperate gardens worldwide.”