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Description
Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic, commonly known as Crape Myrtle, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. It produces beautiful vibrant purple flowers that bloom from early summer to early fall. The foliage is dark green and turns bronze in the fall, adding to its beauty.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Genus: | Lagerstroemia |
Appearance
The Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic has a beautiful, vase-shaped growth habit. The tree has a smooth, gray bark that peels off in patches. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate with serrated margins. They are dark green in color and turn bronze in the fall. The tree produces clusters of vibrant purple flowers from early summer to early fall. The flowers are crinkled and have a crepe-paper-like texture. They are 6-12 inches long and 4-8 inches wide. The tree produces small, round, woody capsules that are filled with small, winged seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. It prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water.Fertilization: The tree requires fertilizer in the spring and summer. Use a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote healthy growth.Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not tolerate heavy clay soils or soils that are too alkaline.Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering will be reduced.Hardiness Zones: The Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic is relatively disease-resistant but can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and aphids. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Leaf spot can be treated with a fungicide. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic is native to China, Korea, and Japan. It prefers warm, humid climates and is commonly found in southern and eastern parts of the United States.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water the Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic?
A: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. It prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water.
Q: What type of soil does the Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic prefer?
A: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not tolerate heavy clay soils or soils that are too alkaline.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases of the Lagerstroemia Indica Purple Magic?
A: The tree can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and aphids. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Leaf spot can be treated with a fungicide. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Lagerstroemia Indica
- Lagerstroemia Indica Natchez
- Lagerstroemia Indica Dynamite
- Lagerstroemia Indica Tuscarora
References
- “Crape Myrtle Trees: Tips for Care and Maintenance.” Better Homes & Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/trees/crape-myrtle-trees/.
- “Lagerstroemia Indica ‘Purple Magic’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b387.
- “Purple Magic Crape Myrtle.” The Tree Center, www.thetreecenter.com/purple-magic-crape-myrtle/.
