Deciduous Tree – Lavender Blast Crape Myrtle

Lavender Blast Crape Myrtle 

Botanical name: lagerstroemia x ‘JM3’ PPAF

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 12-15 ft in height with a spread of 8-12 ft 

Bloom time:  summer – fall 

Hardy zone:  zones 6-10 

Flower color: purple 

Foliage color:  black

Growth rate:  grows 2-3 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune in the late winter/early spring before new growth emerges to main health and desired shape and size 

Propagation methods:  propagate with cuttings in the late winter/early spring 

Landscape use:  specimen plant, accent or focal point, hedges, color contrast 

Light needs:  at least 6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: drought tolerant, cold hardy, compact size 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions :  use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant:  fall or spring 

Best type of soil: can adapt to all kinds of soil 

Companion plants: daylilies, salvia, coreopsis, coneflower, boxwood 

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: no