Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� (Crape Myrtle)

Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� (Crape Myrtle) – A Comprehensive Guide

Lagerstroemia, commonly known as Crape Myrtle, is a stunning and versatile plant that has found its way into numerous gardens and landscapes. The Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� (Crape Myrtle) is a particularly remarkable variety that showcases beautiful flowers and foliage, making it a popular choice for garden enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of this plant, including its culture, uses, maintenance, diseases, and much more. Whether you are a seasoned botanist or a beginner gardener, there is something here for everyone to appreciate and learn about this wonderful plant.

What is Plant: Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� (Crape Myrtle)

Lagerstroemia, a genus of around 50 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs, is native to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and parts of Oceania. The most popular species within this genus is Lagerstroemia indica, commonly referred to as Crape Myrtle. These plants are known for their vibrant and long-lasting flowers, butterfly-attracting abilities, and striking exfoliating bark.

Crape Myrtle varieties are cultivated for their captivating flowers, which come in a range of colors from white to shades of pink, red, and purple. The plant’s attractive bark and foliage, along with its exceptional resistance to various environmental stressors, make it a sought-after addition to landscapes and gardens.

One of the exceptional varieties of Lagerstroemia indica is the Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton�, which boasts stunning dark burgundy foliage and delicate, cotton-like pink flowers. This compact, ornamental shrub is revered for its striking appearance and minimal maintenance requirements.

Key Takeaways – Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� (Crape Myrtle)

Culture

  • Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit Burgundy’
  • Common Name: Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton�, Crape Myrtle
  • Family: Lythraceae
  • Type: Deciduous Shrub
  • Mature Size: 8-12 feet in height, 6-10 feet in width
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Native Range: Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, northern Australia, Oceania

Uses

  • Ornamental shrub for gardens, landscapes, and containers
  • Ideal for hedges, foundation plantings, and mass plantings
  • Attracts butterflies and beneficial insects

Water

  • Watering Needs: Regular watering, especially during dry spells
  • Soil Moisture: Well-draining soil

Sunlight

  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Ideal Light Conditions: 6-8 hours of direct sunlight

Fertilizer

  • Fertilization: Balanced fertilizer in spring
  • Application Frequency: Once a year

Soil

  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy or sandy soil
  • pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-6.5)

Pruning

  • Pruning Needs: Minimal; remove spent flowers and undesired branches
  • Pruning Time: Late winter to early spring

Propagation

  • Propagation Methods: Softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, seeds
  • Ideal Propagation Time: Late spring to early summer

Container Popularity

  • Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� is well-suited for container cultivation, allowing for beautiful additions to porches, patios, and balconies.

Container Common Diseases

  • Root rot
  • Powdery mildew

Disease Diagnosis

  • Early signs of yellowing or browning leaves
  • White, powdery patches on leaves or stems

Common Pests

  • Aphids
  • Japanese beetles
  • Scale insects

Botanist’s Tips

  • Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) promotes continuous blooming
  • Ensure proper air circulation around the plant to prevent disease

Fun Facts

  • The Lagerstroemia genus is named after the Swedish merchant Magnus von Lagerström, who provided Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus with plants from the East Indies in the 18th century.
  • Crape Myrtles were unofficially named the official tree of McKinney, Texas and were celebrated with a local festival in the city.

Links to External Resources

For more detailed information on the Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton� and other Crape Myrtle varieties, you can explore the following external resources:
1. American Association of Nurserymen
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
3. Clemson Cooperative Extension


In the subsequent segments, we will delve deeper into the various aspects of Lagerstroemia Burgundy Cotton�, offering detailed insights into its care, diseases, maintenance, and cultivation. Let’s embark on an in-depth exploration of this remarkable plant.