This crape myrtle cultivar (a cross between L. indica and L. fauriei) is one of several mildew resistant hybrids developed by the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., all of which have been given the names of Native American tribes. It is a deciduous, upright, spreading, multi-stemmed shrub. Features dark green foliage turning orange to red in fall, dark cinnamon brown bark which exfoliates with age and terminal, crepe-papery, 6-12″ long inflorescences (panicles) of white flowers from mid-summer to early fall. Flowers give way to round seed capsules which often persist well into winter. In the South, this cultivar is more tree-like and can be grown as a single trunk tree or large woody shrub with a maximum size of 21′ tall and 21′ wide.
Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Does well in loamy, clay soils with good drainage. Benefits from a slow release fertilizer. Overly fertile soils tend to produce lush foliage growth at the expense of flowering with somewhat increased susceptibility to winter injury.
| Common Name | 'Natchez', Crape Myrtle |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Lagerstroemia x 'Natchez' |
| Container/Amount | 15 gallon |
| Evergreen or Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Hardiness Zone | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Growth Rate | Average |
| Light Requirements | Sun |
| Height | 20 ft. |
| Width | 20 ft |
| Soil Condition | Well-drained |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Flower Color | white |
| Fragrance | No |
| Foliage Color | green |
| Deer Resistant | Yes |
| Fall Color | Orange/red |
