The colorful, long-lasting blossoms of crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) make it a showpiece in classic Southern gardens. But it is not a particularly delicate plant and it can thrive in conditions that would be a challenge for other plants.

Crepe myrtle are deciduous or evergreen, flowering trees or shrubs and are among the best flowering trees. Crepe myrtle is also known as the crape myrtle, and its scientific name is Lagerstroemia. There are approximately 50 species of crepe myrtle. The crepe myrtle is native to south east Asia and northern parts of Australia and Oceania. The crepe myrtle is part of the Lythracae family, also known as loosestrife.

Crepe myrtle derives its name from the crepe like look and texture of the flowers. Most crepe myrtles shed their bark during the year. Different species of crepe myrtle can be as little as 30 cm (1 foot) in height and can be as tall as 30 m (100 feet). The colour of crepe myrtle flowers come in almost any shade of purple, pink, red or white. Crepe myrtles are popular due to their long lasting flowers, which bloom in Summer and Autumn. It is not attractive to deer, so it is a good choice in areas where damage from browsing animals is a problem.

Crape myrtle's long bloom period is one of its most attractive characteristics, and given the proper growing conditions, the plant will be covered with flowers from midsummer into fall.