Overrated for ease, underrated for beauty — Crepe Myrtle

People describe Crepe Myrtle as easy and I'd push back on that slightly. staking correctly with a low stake to allow the trunk to flex and strengthen needs consistent attention and scale insects or aphids in the canopy attracting sooty mould can undermine progress quickly if ignored.

Where Crepe Myrtle is genuinely underrated is the beauty. exceptional seasonal spectacle from blossom through autumn colour is extraordinary when you see it in person. I display it in a wildlife garden with native species and it gets comments from everyone who sees it. autumn colour and fruit or berry display is the time to really understand what this plant offers. Not for the truly neglectful gardener, but absolutely worth the attention it requires.