Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia calyculata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Crape myrtle on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lythraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Crape myrtle
Lagerstroemia calyculata, known as ស្រឡៅ (Sralao) in Cambodia, is a medium to large deciduous tree, valued for its spectacular bloom of lavender-pink to purple flowers in panicles. Its smooth, peeling bark adds visual interest throughout the year, making it an excellent ornamental tree for parks, large gardens, and avenue plantings in tropical and subtropical climates.
Native range
Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines
Care tips
It thrives in full sun for abundant flowering and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells, especially when young. Protect young plants from severe frosts, though mature specimens can tolerate brief temperature drops. Avoid overwatering and waterlogged soils, as this can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Crape myrtle
- Warning signs
- Wilting or dry leaves, premature leaf drop, lack of flowering or aborted blooms.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture, ensure good drainage, prune dry or diseased branches.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, lack of direct sun, poor or compacted soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. Needs full sun and good drainage to recover.