Tuskegee Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia x 'Tuskegee'Local DFW Delivery Only
Product Details
Tuskegee Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia x 'Tuskegee'Tuskegee Crape Myrtle is a stunning variety known for its vibrant pink flowers that bloom all summer long. Its deep green foliage transitions to shades of golden in autumn, while its cinnamon-colored bark adds year-round interest. This upright grower reaches up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide with a rounded canopy, making it a standout in large beds, along fences, or as a focal point.
- Deciduous flowering tree
- Fast growth with upright, rounded habit
- Large pink flower clusters
- Foliage with brilliant fall color
- Exfoliating bark for winter interest
Tuskegee Crape Myrtle thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s highly tolerant of heat and drought once established. Hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10, it’s a colorful choice for landscapes across Texas, bringing bold seasonal flair from summer through winter.
Once established, Tuskegee Crape Myrtle becomes notably low-maintenance and develops into a durable ornamental tree that requires only light seasonal care. This is all it needs:
- Watering: Water deeply during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. After establishment, occasional deep watering during extended dry periods helps maintain healthy foliage and reliable flowering.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter while the tree is dormant to remove damaged or crossing branches. Light structural pruning helps maintain a balanced canopy and supports the development of strong limbs.
- Fertilizing: Fertilizer is rarely necessary in average soils. When additional vigor is desired, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring encourages steady growth without stimulating excessive soft shoots.
- Mulching: Maintain a 2-3 inch mulch layer around the root zone to conserve soil moisture and moderate soil temperatures. Keep mulch slightly away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup against the bark.
- Winter Care: Established trees generally tolerate seasonal cold within their recommended zones. Younger specimens may benefit from a protective mulch layer around the root zone during their first winter.
Tuskegee Crape Myrtle is generally dependable, though occasional pests or structural stress may appear.
- Crape Myrtle Bark Scale: White crusty patches may develop on stems as scale insects feed on plant sap. Dormant oil treatments and removal of heavily infested branches help control populations.
- Aphids: Sticky residue on foliage may signal sap-feeding insects. Spraying leaves with water or using insecticidal soap typically reduces infestations.
- Minor Branch Dieback: Occasionally small branch tips may fail to leaf out. Pruning affected sections during dormancy helps maintain canopy health.
- Surface Root Exposure: Soil erosion or heavy watering may expose shallow roots. Applying mulch around the base helps protect and stabilize the root zone.
- Branch Rubbing: Closely spaced limbs may rub against each other as the canopy grows. Selective pruning improves spacing and prevents bark injury.
Tuskegee Crape Myrtle commonly lives 40-60 years in favorable conditions. Mature trees remain structurally stable for decades. Proper pruning helps maintain healthy growth over time.
Growth typically averages about 18-24 inches per year. Structural maturity often develops within 8-10 years. A full canopy usually forms within 15 years.
Tuskegee Crape Myrtle is known for its coral-salmon colored blooms and strong tree structure. The vibrant flower color creates a striking summer display. Its tall form gives it a commanding presence.
The tree typically forms a broad, rounded canopy with evenly spaced limbs. Branches gradually arch outward as the tree matures. This structure supports large flower clusters.
With maturity, the bark begins to peel in thin layers. Lighter shades beneath the surface become visible over time. This exfoliating bark adds texture to the trunk.
Small seed capsules may remain on branches after flowering ends. These pods add subtle texture to the canopy. Many gardeners remove them during seasonal pruning.
Branches gradually thicken as the tree matures. Early structural pruning helps establish proper spacing between limbs. Mature trees generally maintain strong branch structure.
The flowers provide nectar for bees and other beneficial insects. Summer blooming trees can support pollinator activity later in the growing season. This helps maintain garden biodiversity.
Large flower clusters form across the canopy during peak bloom. The coral tone creates a bright display that stands out in the landscape. Dense blooms often cover much of the tree.
Branches extend outward from the trunk and gradually form a balanced framework. As the tree ages, limbs become more evenly spaced. This growth habit supports a well-formed canopy.
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Tuskegee Crape Myrtle This plant | ||
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lagerstroemia x 'Tuskegee' | Lagerstroemia × ‘Basham’s Party Pink’ |
| Size at Maturity | 20' H x 15' W | 20' H x 15' W |
| Leaf Retention | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Fall Color | Yellow | Yellow |
| Flower Color | Pink | Pink |
| Bloom Times | Summer | Summer |
| Sizes Available | 15 Gal | 10, 15, 45 gal |
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