Lagerstroemia 'Natchez' Play pronunciation

Natchez crape myrtle is an upright, ornamental, spreading, deciduous, multi-stemmed, flowering, large shrub or small-sized tree cultivar, a cross between L. indica 'Pink Lace' x L. subcostata var. faurei. It grows 4 to 30 feet tall and 4 to 35 feet wide. From mid-summer to fall, 6- to 12-inch-long panicles of showy, pure white, ruffled, crepe-paper-like flowers appear. In summer, its glossy leaves are dark green, but by fall they are orange-to-red. The bark is mottled and dark cinnamon brown, exfoliating as the tree ages. It is a member of the loosestrife family (Lythraceae). This plant was developed at the United States Arboretum in Washington, D.C, and was officially named for a Native American tribe in 1978.

Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained, acidic, loamy or clay soils. Tolerates partial shade; however, flower production will be reduced. It is hardy in zones 6 to 9. It should be planted in a protected location. 'Natchez' was bred to be mildew-resistant and is drought-, heat-, clay-soil, and urban-tolerant. Pruning should be completed in winter or early spring, as this plant blooms on new wood.  

'Natchez' is often found in Southern home or commercial landscapes and is one of the more commonly planted flowering shrubs. It may be used as a specimen, foundation, or mass planting. The attractive, exfoliating bark and the large, showy white clusters of flowers will be a striking addition.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for aphids, Japanese beetles, and scale. May be susceptible to sooty mold, leaf spot, and iron chlorosis. Protect from winter injury.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common crape myrtle pests and diseases.

More information on Lagerstroemia indica.