Catawba Crape Myrtle

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

10-15 Feet

Mature Spread

8-10 Feet

Growing Zones

7 to 9

Catawba Crape Myrtle lights up sunny spaces with saturated purple flower clusters that hold their color in summer heat. Its refined, upright-rounded form fits small yards and front landscapes while still delivering big, showy blooms.

Expect months of interest: rich violet flowers from mid summer to fall, smooth bark that peels to reveal cinnamon tones in winter, and warm orange-red foliage in autumn. For a tree-lined walkway or driveway, space plants 8–12 ft on center for a rhythmic, continuous look.

Catawba Crape Myrtle Care

Provide 6–8+ hours of direct sun daily for the fullest bloom and strongest stems. Plant in well-drained soil; slightly acidic to neutral pH 5.5–7.0 is ideal, and amending heavy clay with compost improves drainage. Water deeply the first growing season about once per week, or when the top 2–3 inches of soil are dry; once established, water only during extended dry spells. Apply 2–3 inches of mulch, keeping it a few inches off the trunk.

Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release tree/shrub fertilizer; avoid excess nitrogen that can push leaves over flowers. Prune in late winter to early spring: remove crossing or inward branches and old seed heads, then lightly shape without topping. Hardy in Zones 7–9 (protected sites may succeed in warm Zone 6). Generally mildew tolerant with good sun and airflow; suitable for large containers in warm climates with excellent drainage.

Catawba Crape Myrtle Spacing

For a specimen, allow 10–12 feet of width and plant 8–10 feet from walls, eaves, or other trees to show off the canopy and bark. For a loose hedge or tree-lined path, space plants 8–12 feet on center; tighter spacing knits sooner, wider spacing highlights trunk architecture. Keep 3–5 feet back from paths and driveways for comfortable clearance. In containers, start with a 20–24 inch wide pot, at least 18–20 inches deep, with drainage holes; upgrade 2–4 inches in diameter as roots fill the pot. Stake only during the first season in windy areas, then remove supports to promote sturdy trunks.

Why Grow Catawba Crape Myrtle?

• Long, vivid purple bloom season from summer into fall that stands up to heat.

• Refined, manageable size (typically 10–15 ft tall by 8–12 ft wide) that suits small or large landscapes.

• Low-water once established, with simple once-a-year pruning and a spring feeding.

• Four-season beauty with exfoliating bark and warm fall color, plus flowers loved by bees and butterflies.

Transform a sunny spot into a purple showpiece with minimal fuss. Plant Catawba Crape Myrtle today and enjoy reliable color, graceful form, and year-round interest.