Deciduous Trees (Flowering) – Black Diamond Crape Myrtle

• Black diamond crape myrtle 

Botanical name:  lagerstroemia indica ‘black diamond’ 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 10 ft in height and 8 ft in width 

Bloom time: mid spring – first frost 

Hardy zone: zones 7-9

Flower color: purple, red, white 

Foliage color: deep purple/black, dark burgundy 

Growth rate: can grow 2-3 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: remove dead or broken branches and trim to maintain desired shape and size in the late winter while the plant is in dormancy 

Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge

Landscape use: large border tree or hedge 

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: long lasting blooms 

Watering instructions: allow soil to partially dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 in the early spring 

Best time to plant:  late fall or early spring

Best type of soil: adapts to all kinds of soil

Companion plants: hydrangeas, dogwood, boxwood

Toxicity level:  non-toxic for humans and pets

Invasive species: yes