The Natchez Crepe Myrtle, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei 'Natchez,' is a stunning ornamental tree that can add a touch of elegance and beauty to any landscape. This tree is widely recognized for its striking white blooms, smooth bark, and vibrant green leaves that turn a golden hue in the fall. This article will discuss the tree's characteristics, growing conditions, and maintenance.
Natchez Crepe Myrtle's Characteristics
The tree can grow up to 20-30 feet in height and spread to a width of 15-25 feet. It blooms in mid-summer with large, showy white flowers tinged with pink. The bark is smooth and cinnamon-colored, which exfoliates to reveal a lighter, cream-colored bark underneath. Its leaves are rich green, turning to golden yellow in the fall. The tree is relatively drought-tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases.
Natchez Crepe Myrtle Growing Conditions
The tree thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. It requires sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily to produce abundant flowers. This tree can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during its first year of growth. It is hardy in U.S.D.A. zones 7-10, which means it can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F.
Natchez Crepe Myrtle's Maintenance
It is relatively low-maintenance and requires little trimming. It can be trimmed in late winter to maintain its shape and remove damaged or diseased wood. Pruning should be done sparingly to avoid stimulating new growth, which can reduce the number of flowers produced. This tree benefits from fertilization once a year in the early spring using a slow-release fertilizer.
Natchez Crepe Myrtle's Stunning Appearance
Natchez Crepe Myrtle blooms during the summer. The soft, small flowers grow in white clusters and create a beautiful contrast against the glossy dark green leaves. The leaves continue to be pleasing to the eyes as they change to a rich red-orange during fall.
Another attractive feature of this decorative tree is the smooth cinnamon-colored bark that peels on its own, giving it a rustic and appealing look. The tree grows at a moderate pace and can grow to a height of twenty feet and a width of twenty feet. This particular tree has a unique growth pattern that makes it appear to be a shrub rather than a tree.
The tree's base is usually significantly shorter than the branches if the base even forms. The branches grow upwards more than outwards and create a thick, symmetrical canopy. The matter in which this tree grows and its attractive features have made it a favorite in private landscaping. It has especially become famous as a natural divider to provide privacy to yards.
The beautiful contrast of colors has also made it a favorite as a simple lawn decoration. It is primarily a southern-dwelling plant that can grow in moderately warm coastal environments. It grows best in average, well-drained soils with plenty of direct sunlight.
Once planted, it is best to water the crepe myrtle regularly to help establish a robust root system. Once the root system has developed enough in the soil, the tree only needs to be watered occasionally unless there is intense heat.
Natchez Crepe Myrtle is easy to care for once mature enough, only requiring pruning in late winter. The tree also has adequate resistance to pollutants, diseases, and insects, thus making the tree more durable than its delicate appearance.
