Lagerstroemia indica, commonly known as single lagerstroemia or Indian crape myrtle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lythraceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka east to China and Indonesia. It is a small to medium-sized tree growing to 10–20 m tall, with a dense, round crown. The leaves are 6–18 cm long and 3–8 cm broad, with an entire or finely toothed margin. The flowers are borne in summer in dense panicles 20–30 cm long, each flower 3–4 cm diameter, with six petals in shades of pink, purple or white. The fruit is a dry, woody capsule 15–20 mm diameter, containing numerous small seeds.
How to care:
Lagerstroemia indica is a heat-loving plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but does best with regular watering during prolonged dry periods. Indian crape myrtle can be pruned to shape as needed, and benefits from a light trimming after flowering to encourage dense new growth.
Water requirement:
Indian crape myrtle needs regular watering, especially during prolonged dry periods.
Sunlight:
This plant thrives in full sun.
Soil:
Lagerstroemia indica prefers well-drained soil.
Pruning:
Indian crape myrtle can be pruned to shape as needed, and benefits from a light trimming after flowering to encourage dense new growth.
Type of Soil:
Lagerstroemia indica prefers well-drained soil.
Propagation:
Lagerstroemia indica can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Seed: Sow seed in spring in a warm, sunny location.
Cuttings: Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Landscape uses:
Lagerstroemia indica is a popular ornamental plant, used in parks and gardens in tropical and subtropical regions. It is also used as a street tree or in large pots.