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In 1971, a prominent South Carolina tree grower had 3 varieties of crepe myrtles to sell – red, pink, and white. Today, the same company has 26 varieties and new introductions are coming out (almost) every year. Not all new varieties survive the scrutiny of the buying public but those that do, have changed our gardening lifestyle.
Once knows as a symbol of the South, crepe myrtles arrived in Charleston, South Carolina where botanist Andre Micheux was the first to cultivate them in our country in 1786. George Washington grew them at Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson planted them at Monticello. No other tree or shrub can rival the show crepe myrtles put on in summer when they dazzle the eyes in the dead heat of July and August. The flower petals resemble crinkly paper, hence the name “crape” – an America misspelling of the French word “crepe.”
Crepe myrtles are available in so many colors today they are considered a fashion statement in some areas of the South. And no crepe myrtle has turned more heads or become part of more yards in the last 20 years than Natchez White. Yes, White! Not only are the blooms 3 times the size of other crepe myrtles but their weight causes branches to bend down and weep, which is very cool looking on a hot summer day. On a winter day, enjoy the rich cinnamon color as the bark peels away.
But that is truly just the beginning of what has happened to crepe myrtles in recent years. If you like bold and red, consider these for starters: Victor, Dynamite, and Cedar Cane. If you are into pink, look at Sioux, Tuscarora, or Petite Plum. Truth be told, there is a crepe myrtle for every hot sunny spot in your gardens. Early bloomers are already showing color and they are easy to grow and easy to maintain. So plant crepe myrtles this month and enjoy. They have come a long way since simply being red, pink, and white.
-Ken Matthews
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Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus
The Vitex, often mistaken for Butterfly Bush, blooms around the same time in late June through September spiky purple, blue, white or pink flowers. The differences, though, are quite noticeable on inspection. The Vitex leaves are finger-like and when brushed against very aromatic!
At maturity, this small tree can grow to 15 – 20’. It loves full sun, is very low care and is not particular of soil type. A sure bet for a small yard, but can be a show stopper planted anywhere. Spectacular in bloom!
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Butterfly Bush
Buddleia
Want a shrub that attracts literally 100’s of butterflies when in bloom, is low care, drought tolerant, blooms attractive spiky flowers in pinks, purples, blues and whites all summer, has really no known pests, grows in any kind of soil, and has so many varieties that selecting one will be the hardest job you’ll have? If this is for you – select a place with plenty of room as most love to grow 3’ – 8’ (depending on variety), and you’ll want them to!
A few of our favorites - Lo and Behold, Silver Anniversary, and Butterfly Heaven.
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