Comparing Crepe Myrtle varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Crepe Myrtle family and have some observations to share. exceptional seasonal spectacle from blossom through autumn colour varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — keeping a mulch-free collar immediately around the trunk applies across all of them.

scale insects or aphids in the canopy attracting sooty mould affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a specimen on a lawn as a traditional statement tree which works well for most varieties. autumn colour and fruit or berry display is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.