The Beautiful Crepe Myrtle Tree
By: Hoyte Bitting
Imagine the delicate aroma, wafting from bunches of paper thin clusters of deep purple to red petals, gently draped over cinnamon colored bark – this is the beauty of the crepe myrtle tree. This colorful shrub or tree thrives in hot drier climates and is used often in landscaping . Its name comes from the thin, crinkled, paper-like petals on the flowers that resemble crepe paper.
Where did this enchanting tree come from, and how can you care for yours? Well…
There are many different species of the crepe myrtle tree. Initially, native to China, India, Northern Australia, Oceania as well as Southeast Asia, today they can be found in almost any kind of warm, dry climate. The Southern United States, for example, is now famous for their use of this decorative tree in landscaping, both in private homes and on municipal properties. Other regions, like southern France, Italy as well as other parts of Europe host certain types of the crepe myrtle tree, too. Some hardier species of the plant are finding their way in cooler climates also.
What makes this tree so appealing? The draw of this tree is largely due to the gorgeous clusters of flowers that stay in bloom for months at a time. The fragrant blossoms last throughout the summer months into the fall season. Adding to the unique and attractive appearance of the flowers, the tree’s bark changes into a cinnamon color, as it ages and then peels off in small sections.
The changeable look of the plant makes it a great way to beautify a lawn or other property. Whether or not one prefers to use it as hedge or shrub, or perhaps a stately tree, it adds a touch of color as well as scent. Depending on the local climate, the crepe myrtle tree can grow anywhere from about 5 feet to up to 20 feet in height.
Want a tree of your own? Remember this variety of tree loves a hot climate. The crepe myrtle tree does not endure cold winters well. Be sure the soil in which the tree is planted is well fertilized and is well drained.
To maintain a tree-like shape, make sure to prune the brand new shoots that will grow on the trunk. This happens as the crepe myrtle is much more shrub-like than tree. In the spring, a light pruning will help keep the natural form of the crepe myrtle.
The crepe myrtle tree is a pleasure to behold, whether it’s in your yard or you’re visiting a region that is conducive to its growth. This delicately blossomed tree is sure to capture the attention of any who pass by.
Author Resource:-> You can find out about different varieties of crepe myrtle and how to care for crepe myrtles by visiting http://mycrepemyrtle.com. By taking care of your crepe myrtle tree, you will ensure years full of rosy, pink, or lavender blossoms for a long time to come! —- Article From Articles For All
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When To Prune Your Myrtle Tree
When to prune depends a lot on where you live. If you live in colder climates where freezing temperatures are relatively common, you should prune your tree in late spring or early summer so that you can see the damage caused by the previous winter. If you prune any earlier you may hurt the plant’s cold hardiness. If you live in warmer climates where freezing temperatures are rare you can safely prune your crepe myrtle a bit earlier, around late winter to early spring. If you do it in the middle of the winter, new growth may start and then freeze. So to recap, if you live in a colder climate late spring or early summer if you live in a warmer climate late winter or early spring.
More on pruning your Crepe Myrtle Tree: Mycrepemyrtle.com – How To Prune Your Crepe Myrtle
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