Crepe myrtle trees are known for their beautiful flowers, which appear at the end of long, straight branches. A crepe myrtle can add a splash of color to your landscape. Aside from some pruning each spring, they require little care. There are many different varieties of crepe myrtle, and if your space is limited, you'll want to make sure you choose a smaller one. Here's a look at four small crepe myrtle varieties that are ideal for garden beds or property lines.
Bourbon Street
This is one of the smallest varieties of crepe myrtle available, reaching only about 3 feet in height when mature. Bourbon Street crepe myrtle bushes have watermelon-colored flowers, which appear in large clumps at the ends of their branches.This variety of myrtle is not as resistant to mildew as some, so if you plant it in a moist area, you may want to have it sprayed with fungicides periodically so it does not become infested. It requires full sunlight and has average water needs.
Dwarf Low Flame
The dwarf low flame is a miniature version of the low flame myrtle, which is known for its stunning red flowers. This small myrtle variety grows to about 5 feet in height, though it may remain smaller if sunlight is limited. It offers good resistance against mildew, so fungicides aren't necessary. The long-lasting blooms of the low flame crepe mytle offer months of color, appearing in spring and holding on until fall. It will not grow well in alkaline soil, so be sure to run a soil test before planting.
Dwarf Snow
If you're looking for a myrtle bush with white flowers, this one is a great choice. Dwarf snow myrtles reach about 6 feet in height, and when they bloom, they become covered in dense blankets of flowers. They are somewhat susceptible to mildew and other fungal infections, but their bark does not peel. The shrubs have an upright shape and can even be planted in pots if desired, making them a lovely choice for a patio or sunroom.
Okmulgee
This unique myrtle variety has flowers that are more sparse than some, but their dark red color makes them very attractive. Okmulgee myrtle bushes have a very upright shape and grow to about 6 feet in height. They are somewhat susceptible to mildew, but are more tolerant of shade than many other myrtle varieties. Okmulgree crepe myrtles require full sunlight and prefer a soil pH between 5.1 and 6.5.
Myrtle bushes of all varieties are easier to transplant than to grow as seed. Visit your local garden store to find one of the varieties above, or talk to your landscape professional, one like Glynn Young's Landscaping & Nursery Center, about adding myrtles to your design.
Share