Crape Myrtle Tuscarora

Lagerstroemia (indica x fauriei) ‘Tuscarora’

A favorite for its large dark coral pink flowers, ‘Tuscarora’ is truly spectacular. With a flower panicle size that can reach 12” long by 8” wide, these massive flowers are overwhelmingly abundant for a 70-day flowering period or longer. The trade-off for such an overwhelming floral display is a slower rate of growth and smaller mature tree size of 16’ to 20’ in height x 12’ to 16’ in spread.

An Indian Series crape myrtle, the size of Tuscarora is normally 25% to 33% smaller than its family members ‘Natchez’ and ‘Muskogee’ of the United States Department of Agriculture National Arboretum. Where space is limited, this upright vase shaped small tree with light brown exfoliating bark could be a better choice. If stunning floral display is the number one criteria, Tuscarora will most likely be your pick.

Ornamental Characteristics:

Native Origin:
China & Korea/Hybrid origin

Common Names:
‘Tuscarora’ Crape Myrtle

Description:
Hardy Range:  7A to 10A
Mature Height: 15’ to 25’
Mature Spread: 12’ to 20’
Growth Rate: 20 to 25 years to maturity
Form: vase shaped
Persistence: deciduous

Ornamental Characteristics:
The flowers are dark coral pink and are very showy, lasting spring through fall. Foliage is green, turning to an attractive orange and red in fall. The fruit is dry, oval, round, persistent, attractive and brown in color. Exfoliating bark is light brown in color.

Environment:
Soil: sand, loam, clay; acidic, alkaline; well-drained
Salt: medium
Exposure: full sun