Lagerstroemia fauriei

Deciduous, upright, small tree that can grow to 9m tall.

Delicate white crinkled flowers with a slight fragrance bloom from late summer to autumn and are occasionally followed by small brown fruit. Mature trees develop spectacular peeling bark in shades of gray brown and maroon.

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun.

Always choose healthy, well grown plants and plant after autumn rains. On heavy soils, raise the level of beds and borders with extra topsoil and coarse pumice or sand. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball, press in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow-release fertiliser and then every spring, apply organic fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre.

Tall plants and those in windy positions require staking to stabilise the root ball until established. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing. Tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind, encouraging the development of a strong root system without chafing or root damage. Unless the soil is very wet, water thoroughly, making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root ball.

Apply mulch annually to suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic material, such as sawdust and bark, contribute to soil structure. However, make sure to keep mulch away from plant stems. A light application (50g/m2) of general-purpose fertiliser in spring is beneficial. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil, taking care not to damage the delicate roots.

Pruning should be done in late winter or early in the spring before growth begins as it is easier to see which branches to prune. New growth can be pinched off to increase branching and flowering, but this is not needed to develop good form. Lower branches are often thinned to show off the trunk form and colour. You can remove the spent flower heads to encourage a second flush of flowers and to prevent the formation of the brown fruits. Pruning methods vary. Crepe myrtles can be topped or cut to the ground each spring, or just dead wood and old flower stalks can be removed.

Generally free of pests and diseases.

Urban Trees