Crape Myrtle Trees for Sale: Your Complete Buying Guide
Discover how to choose the perfect crape myrtle tree for your landscape. From vibrant summer blooms to stunning fall foliage and peeling bark, learn everything you need to buy with confidence.
START YOUR BUYING JOURNEYWhy Crape Myrtles? Crape myrtles are among the most rewarding flowering trees for home landscapes. They deliver months of vibrant summer color, attractive peeling bark, and brilliant fall foliage — all with relatively low maintenance. Whether you are looking for a compact dwarf variety for a patio or a majestic tree form to anchor your front yard, there is a crape myrtle perfect for your space.
How to Choose the Right Crape Myrtle Tree
When you search for crape myrtle trees for sale, you will encounter a wide range of sizes, flower colors, and growth habits. Choosing the right one starts with understanding your landscape goals, climate, and available space. Crape myrtles (genus Lagerstroemia) are native to Asia but have become a staple of Southern and Mid-Atlantic landscapes in the United States. They thrive in U.S.D.A. zones 6 through 10, with some cold-hardy cultivars pushing into zone 5.
The first decision is size. Dwarf crape myrtles mature at 3 to 6 feet and work beautifully in containers or small borders. Semi-dwarf varieties reach 6 to 12 feet and fit well in foundation plantings. Standard tree forms grow 15 to 30 feet and make stunning specimen trees or street plantings. Before you buy, measure your space and account for the tree's mature spread — crape myrtles can spread as wide as they are tall. For more landscaping inspiration, explore our guide on cheap and simple front yard landscaping ideas that pair well with flowering trees.
Flower Color Options
Crape myrtles come in shades of pink, red, purple, lavender, and white. Some cultivars offer bi-color blooms. Consider how the flower color will complement your home's exterior and existing garden palette. Pink and white are timeless choices for traditional landscapes, while red and purple make bold statements in modern designs.
Growth Habit
Choose between single-trunk or multi-trunk forms. Multi-trunk crape myrtles have a more natural, shrub-like appearance, while single-trunk specimens offer a classic tree silhouette. Both work well in landscapes, but single-trunk forms are often preferred for formal entryways and street plantings.
Disease Resistance
Powdery mildew is the most common disease affecting crape myrtles. Modern cultivars — especially those with Native American tribe names like 'Natchez', 'Muskogee', and 'Tuscarora' — offer excellent resistance. Always ask about disease resistance before purchasing, especially in humid climates.
Bark Interest
One of the crape myrtle's most underrated features is its peeling, mottled bark, which adds winter interest to the landscape. Some varieties like 'Natchez' have cinnamon-colored bark that peels dramatically. Consider bark color and texture if you want year-round appeal.
Popular Crape Myrtle Varieties Compared
Below is a comparison of some of the most widely available crape myrtle varieties. Use this as a starting point, then confirm mature size and hardiness with the seller before buying. For broader plant selection, browse our plants and flowers category.
| Variety | Mature Height | Flower Color | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dwarf 'Pocomoke' | 3–5 feet | Deep pink | Containers, small borders, entry-level landscapes |
| 'Acoma' | 8–12 feet | White | Patios, foundation plantings, mid-tier landscapes |
| 'Tuscarora' | 15–20 feet | Coral pink | Specimen trees, street plantings, premium landscapes |
| 'Natchez' | 20–30 feet | White | Large yards, commercial landscapes, top-tier estates |
| 'Muskogee' | 15–25 feet | Lavender | Mixed borders, privacy screens, mid-range to high-end landscapes |
Planting and Caring for Your New Crape Myrtle
Once you have selected your tree, proper planting and care will ensure it thrives for decades. Crape myrtles prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They tolerate drought once established but perform best with consistent moisture during the first two growing seasons. Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water pools, as this can lead to root rot. For soil preparation tips, see our guide on composting to build healthy, fertile ground.
Water newly planted crape myrtles deeply once or twice per week during the first year. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid heavy pruning — crape myrtles bloom on new wood, but excessive cutting can ruin their natural shape. For more pruning guidance, visit our pruning tips section.
Pest problems are relatively rare, though aphids and scale can occasionally appear. A strong blast of water often dismounts aphids, and natural predators usually keep populations in check. For organic solutions, explore our natural pest control resources.
Where to Buy Crape Myrtle Trees
Crape myrtle trees are widely available from online nurseries, local garden centers, and big-box retailers. When buying online, choose reputable nurseries that ship bare-root or container-grown trees with a guarantee. Container-grown trees are easier to establish and can be planted throughout the growing season. Bare-root trees are more economical but require immediate planting upon arrival. Always inspect the roots and branches upon delivery and report any damage immediately.
If you prefer shopping locally, check independent garden centers and specialty tree farms in your area. Local nurseries often carry cultivars adapted to your specific climate. For a broader selection of outdoor living products and tools, see our garden tools collection.
Ready to Add a Crape Myrtle to Your Landscape?
Browse our curated selection of crape myrtle trees and gardening supplies. Start your journey to a more colorful garden today.
VIEW RECOMMENDED PRODUCTSFrequently Asked Questions About Crape Myrtles
How fast do crape myrtle trees grow?
Crape myrtles are fast growers, typically adding 12 to 24 inches per year once established. Dwarf varieties grow slower, while standard tree forms can reach mature heights of 15 to 30 feet.
When is the best time to plant crape myrtle trees?
The best time to plant crape myrtles is in early spring or early fall. This allows roots to establish before extreme summer heat or winter cold. Container-grown trees can be planted throughout the growing season with proper watering.
Do crape myrtle trees need full sun?
Yes, crape myrtles require full sun for at least six hours daily to bloom profusely. In partial shade, they may grow leggy and produce fewer flowers. They are also more susceptible to powdery mildew in shaded locations.
Are crape myrtle trees deer resistant?
Crape myrtles are considered deer resistant. Deer may occasionally browse young tender growth, but mature trees are rarely damaged. They are a reliable choice for landscapes with deer pressure.
How much water do crape myrtles need?
Newly planted crape myrtles need regular deep watering — about once or twice per week during the first growing season. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and only need supplemental water during extended dry spells.
Can crape myrtles grow in containers?
Yes, dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties grow beautifully in large containers. Choose a pot at least 18 to 24 inches in diameter with drainage holes. Container-grown crape myrtles need more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Explore more gardening topics: hydrangeas, dogwood trees, hostas, and garden ornaments to complete your landscape.
