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Description
Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight, also known as Crape Myrtle, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Lythraceae. This stunning plant is native to China and Korea and is popular among gardeners for its beautiful, long-lasting blooms. It typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 feet and spreads 8 to 12 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Lagerstroemia |
Appearance
Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight is characterized by its stunning, large, white flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are densely packed on the panicles, which can be up to 12 inches long. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful orange-red color. The bark of the tree is smooth and has a distinctive mottled appearance, with shades of gray, brown, and pink.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and longevity of your Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight, you should follow some basic care guidelines. Water: This plant prefers a moderate amount of water, but it is important not to overwater it. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize your Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight once a year in the spring. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for best results.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 7 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be controlled with fungicides. Other potential pests include aphids, scale, and spider mites.
Habitat
Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight is native to China and Korea, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. In the United States, it is commonly grown as a landscape plant and can be found in gardens and parks throughout the country.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight?
A: Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater it.Q: What type of soil does Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight prefer?
A: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight?
A: This plant is hardy in zones 7 through 9.Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight?
A: This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, scale, and spider mites.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight:
- Lagerstroemia indica (Common Crape Myrtle)
- Lagerstroemia fauriei (Japanese Crape Myrtle)
- Lagerstroemia speciosa (Queen’s Crape Myrtle)
References
- “Lagerstroemia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287552. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
- “Lagerstroemia Delta Moonlight.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP50600.pdf. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
- “Crape Myrtle Trees – Lagerstroemia Indica.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/trees/landscape/hgic1008.html. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
