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Description
Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite, also known as Crape Myrtle, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Lythraceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan, but it is also widely cultivated in other parts of the world. The tree can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and has a spread of 15-20 feet. It produces beautiful, showy flowers in shades of red, pink, lavender, and white during the summer months. The bark of the tree is smooth and has a pinkish-gray color that peels off in thin sheets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Genus: | Lagerstroemia |
Appearance
Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite has a multi-stemmed growth habit and can be grown as a tree or a shrub. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate in shape. They are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are produced in large panicles at the end of the branches and are about 6-12 inches long. They have a crinkled, crepe-like texture and are very showy. The fruit of the tree is a small, round capsule that contains many tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to bloom properly.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite can be susceptible to several pests and diseases, including powdery mildew, aphids, and scale insects. Regular inspections and treatments can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite is native to China, Korea, and Japan, but it can be found in many other parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and Europe. The tree prefers warm, humid climates and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant is a great attractor of bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
– Lagerstroemia Indica (Common Crape Myrtle)- Lagerstroemia Speciosa (Queen’s Crape Myrtle)- Lagerstroemia Fauriei (Japanese Crape Myrtle)- Lagerstroemia Subcostata (Chinese Crape Myrtle)
References
– “Lagerstroemia Indica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 7, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279697&isprofile=0&basic=Lagerstroemia%20indica.- “Plant Care Guide: Crape Myrtle.” Proven Winners. Accessed May 7, 2021. https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/lagerstroemia/crape-myrtle-care-guide.
