The crape myrtle tree is a fast growing tree or shrub that is said to have come from the Far East, India and Australia. They thrive best in temperate climates and come in sizes ranging from a three foot shrub to trees well over fifty feet tall. You can expect the average plant to be over thirty feet tall.
With colors from dark ruby red to the deepest purples and whites the fifty or so varieties of myrtle seem to have something for everyone. The bark of these trees is generally smooth and light in color and sheds off in the winter months. A more durable and popular species comes with darker leaves and bark that was developed in Japan. This variety is becoming more desirable for commercial properties in their landscaping.
These trees and bushes have the longest blooming cycle of any other plant. They can remain in bloom for up to one hundred twenty days. It is said that you can go from seed to blooms in one season. These two positive factors cause them to be in high demand for homes and businesses.
They are also relatively easy to grow in as much as they need no special treatment for the soil. They can adjust to most situations so long as the soil remains moist and well drained. They do not do well in soggy soil though. The drainage keeps the roots healthy and helps to keep pests away.
Over kill when pruning is not advised. Too many people get carried away when topping the trees and containing the width of branches. This serves to ruin the natural looking shape of the plant and can also cause growth of sprouts from the base of the root system. Once done this condition is in all probability permanent.
Another facet of this tree is it's timber. It is prized for it's strength and beauty. Common uses include furniture, sleeping cars and bridges. The look and feel of the wood makes beautiful furniture that needs minimal sanding or smoothing. The same beauty gives the sleeper cars a look of luxury while being strong enough to carry a heavy load when necessary.
The leaves of certain myrtles in India are the favored food of a Caterpillar whose cocoon is used to create tussar silk. This wild silk is very popular for saris, the traditional dress of East Indian women. They use it for other products such as clothing and crafts. The colors that are available have increased tremendously now that chemical dyes are available in production.
The crape myrtle is a plant that will bring years of beauty to your life. They range from shrub to tree and have been developed to have a color that will suite most everyone. They also have uses beyond the yard decor they supply. If you are interested in plants that are easily cultivated and will give you first season blossoms you may want to look into getting one or more of these.
With colors from dark ruby red to the deepest purples and whites the fifty or so varieties of myrtle seem to have something for everyone. The bark of these trees is generally smooth and light in color and sheds off in the winter months. A more durable and popular species comes with darker leaves and bark that was developed in Japan. This variety is becoming more desirable for commercial properties in their landscaping.
These trees and bushes have the longest blooming cycle of any other plant. They can remain in bloom for up to one hundred twenty days. It is said that you can go from seed to blooms in one season. These two positive factors cause them to be in high demand for homes and businesses.
They are also relatively easy to grow in as much as they need no special treatment for the soil. They can adjust to most situations so long as the soil remains moist and well drained. They do not do well in soggy soil though. The drainage keeps the roots healthy and helps to keep pests away.
Over kill when pruning is not advised. Too many people get carried away when topping the trees and containing the width of branches. This serves to ruin the natural looking shape of the plant and can also cause growth of sprouts from the base of the root system. Once done this condition is in all probability permanent.
Another facet of this tree is it's timber. It is prized for it's strength and beauty. Common uses include furniture, sleeping cars and bridges. The look and feel of the wood makes beautiful furniture that needs minimal sanding or smoothing. The same beauty gives the sleeper cars a look of luxury while being strong enough to carry a heavy load when necessary.
The leaves of certain myrtles in India are the favored food of a Caterpillar whose cocoon is used to create tussar silk. This wild silk is very popular for saris, the traditional dress of East Indian women. They use it for other products such as clothing and crafts. The colors that are available have increased tremendously now that chemical dyes are available in production.
The crape myrtle is a plant that will bring years of beauty to your life. They range from shrub to tree and have been developed to have a color that will suite most everyone. They also have uses beyond the yard decor they supply. If you are interested in plants that are easily cultivated and will give you first season blossoms you may want to look into getting one or more of these.
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