- 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
