Crape Myrtle

Native to China, the Crape Myrtle is a beautiful, tall shrub or small tree growing up to 5 m high and wide, which makes a lovely accent in a garden. It is not very common in Riyadh, because not all of its growing conditions can be fulfilled. However, choice specimens can be seen in Olaya. Looking best with multi-trunks, L. indica has dark green, oval leaves up to 5 cm long (light green with a copper tone in spring, turning brilliant orange or red in autumn) and clusters of delicate, crinkly-petaled flowers. There are many cultivars with a wide range of colours from brilliant red to pink, purple, lavender and white. One of its most attractive attributes is the attractive, smooth grey/brown trunk and branch structure, appearing to be polished in winter, the bark of which peels off to reveal a pinkish inner bark. The tree requires sun and heat to bloom well, with some wind protection and though quite drought resistant, regular irrigation and deep watering in summer are appreciated. The Crape Myrtle prefers well-drained, fertile, sandy soils, but is not tolerant of alkaline or saline soil. It will tolerate frost in Riyadh. Propagation is usually by seed. A slow release fertilizer, rich in nitrogen and potassium, can be applied 2 to 3 times per year. Susceptible to mildew and attacks by aphids and cochineals, systemic fungicides and insecticides will prevent these, when applied in spring. Prone also to leaf burn and chlorosis, due to irrigation with saline and alkaline water, the soil must be leached and treated with iron. Requiring only low maintenance and light pruning to encourage flowering, this tree is excellent on patios, in containers, and close to doorways.