The Brightest Red Blooms of All Crape Myrtles
Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit II,’ commonly known as the Red Crape Myrtle, is prized for its brilliant clusters of ruffled scarlet-red flowers—the boldest red of all crape myrtle varieties. A favorite across the southern United States, this heat-loving, cold-tolerant, and pest-resistant shrub thrives in full sun and rewards with dazzling color from midsummer through early fall.
This dense, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub features smooth, peeling bark that adds year-round interest. Its dark green foliage provides a rich backdrop to the vivid blooms before transitioning to golden-yellow and orange hues in autumn. Blooming from July to September, flowers can last up to four months, and light pruning of spent blooms will encourage even longer flowering periods.
Safe for pets and beneficial to pollinators, the Red Crape Myrtle is a standout choice for vibrant hedges, specimen plantings, or mixed landscapes.
Key Features
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- Brightest red blooms of all crape myrtle varieties
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- Extended bloom period: July through September (up to 4 months)
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- Multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with smooth, peeling bark
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- Foliage transitions from green to golden-orange in fall
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- Heat- and drought-tolerant once established
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- Pest and disease resistant
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- Attracts birds, bees, and butterflies
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- Pet safe, non-toxic
Bring bold, long-lasting color to your garden with the striking Crape Myrtle ‘Red.’