When you see a crape myrtle tree in full bloom, it’s hard not to stop and stare at the beautiful flowers. They’re likely the most common tree or shrub planted in Texas and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The trees are originally native to China and Korea, but they can handle Texas' hot climate, including droughts. They thrive in sunny conditions and should get at least six hours of direct sunlight everyday.
“People prize them for their colorful flowers and smooth, fluted trunks. However, many people don’t know that the trunks are so smooth because they shed their outer layer of bark every year! Don’t panic if you see the bark peeling from your tree – it’s totally normal, “ writes Kelsey Low of Houston Arboretum.
During the summer, you’ll see purple, pink, white, and red flowers bloom on crape myrtle trees and shrubs. Once the flowers bloom, they have wrinkled petals similar to crepe paper, giving them their name. Crape myrtles can serve as a habitat for birds, and bees are also attracted to the plant.
