Lagerstroemia subcostata

Shrubs Trees

An upright, deciduous shrub or multi-stemmed tree to 4m tall, with grey, peeling bark revealing brown patches beneath. In summer it bears small clusters of white, pink or pale purple flowers. In autumn the foliage turns orange and red

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lythraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Lagerstroemia can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs, with simple leaves and conical panicles of flowers with ruffled petals; some have attractive peeling bark
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
E Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

See pruning group 1; will withstand hard pruning

Pests

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly if grown indoors

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)