Tree Natchez Crape Myrtle

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia × fauriei ‘Natchez’

Common Name: Natchez Crape Myrtle

Mature Height and Width:
20–30' tall × 15–20' wide

Growth Habit:
Large multi-trunk ornamental tree with broad upright-vase structure. Strong vertical framework with arching secondary branches forming a rounded canopy. Moderate to fast growth rate. Typically grown as a clump form with multiple smooth trunks.

Foliage Description:
Medium green elliptical leaves with smooth margins. Dense summer canopy with good leaf coverage. Leaves turn orange to red in fall before drop in suitable climates.

Flower Description:
Large conical panicles of pure white crinkled flowers. Panicles upright and substantial, forming bold terminal clusters across canopy. Bloom display heavy and evenly distributed when mature.

Bloom Time:
Mid to late summer (often July–September in Northeast Zone 7).

Fall Color:
Orange to red tones before leaf drop.

Light Requirements:
Full sun required for best bloom production and canopy density.

Hardiness Zone:
USDA Zones 6–9 (reliable in Zone 7; protected or milder Zone 6 locations).

Notable Landscape Uses:
Lawn specimen; patio shade tree; streetscape planting; focal point in warm-climate landscapes; summer flowering canopy tree.

Deer Resistance:
Moderate
Young growth may be browsed; generally not preferred once mature.