Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei 'Tonto' ~ Tonto Crape Myrtle

Tonto Crape Myrtle is a semi-dwarf multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with exfoliating bark.  The foliage is a glossy dark green before turning dull red or burgundy in fall, while the large purple-pink panicles bloom on new wood in summer.  Best color in full sun and rich well-drained soil.  Good resistance to powdery mildew, heat, and drought. Type:  Shrub Height:  6' - 8' Spread:  6’ - 8' Spacing:  6' USDA Hardiness Zone:  6 - 9 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  Pink Season of Interest:  Summer, Fall MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance.  Water Regularly.  Prune back in spring before bloom to promote flowers.  It can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew.  Watch for aphids and scale. LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Wildlife Gardens, Urban Gardens, Foundation Planting, and Hedges. COMPANION PLANTS: Lilyturf, Hibiscus, Agastache Image: Photo by David J. Stang, Lagerstroemia x fauriei Tonto 1zz, CC BY-SA 4.0