Queen Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia speciosa L.

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Lythraceae

Explanation of name: For generic name see L. indica.  Speciosa means showy. 

Natural range:  Asia

Recognition: Small tree or large shrub flowering in late spring and summer.  Leaves prominently veined, to about a foot long, lobed (auricled) basally.  Flowers very showy, pink to purple, about 3” in diameter, the clusters (panicles) over a foot long.  Distinguished from L. indica on the Lythraceae page.

Landscape uses: Showy, summer-flowering specimen small tree or shrub. Will grow in full sun on a wide range of well-drained soils where there are no overhead restrictions.  Should tolerate storms well having hard wood with flexible branches.  Requires regular fertilization or leaves become chlorotic.  Also referred to as Pride of India and Queen’s Flower.

Internet sources: http://www.tropilab.com/queen-flow.html

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ST349

Garden Guru article on Crepe Myrtles by George Rogers