Crape Myrtles are one of Tampa Bay's most beloved landscape trees — and for good reason. They bloom for up to 120 days in summer with spectacular flower clusters in pink, red, purple, and white, they're drought-tolerant, fast-growing, and virtually maintenance-free once established. At Plant It Tampa Bay, we carry three types of Crape Myrtles to suit every yard size and style.
About Crape Myrtles
The Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a deciduous flowering tree native to Asia that has become a staple of Southern U.S. landscapes. In Tampa Bay, they thrive in our heat and full sun, producing massive clusters of crinkled, crepe-paper-like blooms from late spring through summer. Their exfoliating bark adds beautiful winter interest even when the tree is leafless.
- Sun: Full sun — 6+ hours daily for best blooming
- Water: Water regularly when newly planted; drought-tolerant once established
- Growth rate: Fast — 6 to 22 feet depending on variety
- Bloom time: Late spring through summer — up to 120 days of color
- Pet friendly: Yes — safe for pets
Our Crape Myrtle Varieties
1. Crape Myrtles — Multi Stem
Our multi-stem Crape Myrtles are available in an assortment of colors including pink, purple, red, and white. The multi-stem form creates a full, bushy silhouette with multiple trunks that show off the beautiful exfoliating bark. Perfect for large borders, privacy screens, and as a dramatic focal point in Tampa Bay landscapes.
- Form: Multi-stem — full, bushy silhouette
- Colors available: Pink, Purple, Red, White (assorted)
- Mature size: 6–22 ft tall, 8–14 ft wide
- Best for: Large borders, privacy screens, specimen planting
Shop by color:
2. Crape Myrtles — Single Trunk
Our single-trunk Crape Myrtles offer a more formal, tree-like appearance with one clean central trunk. This form showcases the stunning exfoliating bark and creates an elegant canopy of summer blooms. Available in assorted colors, single-trunk Crape Myrtles are ideal for street trees, entryways, and smaller yards where a tidy, upright form is preferred.
- Form: Single trunk — formal, tree-like appearance
- Colors available: Assorted (pink, purple, red, white)
- Mature size: 6–22 ft tall
- Best for: Street trees, entryways, formal landscapes, smaller yards
Shop Single Trunk Crape Myrtles →
3. Crape Myrtles Black Diamond — 15 Gallon
The Black Diamond Crape Myrtle is one of the most striking and sought-after varieties available. It features deep burgundy-black foliage that contrasts dramatically with its vivid blooms — making it a true showstopper in any Tampa Bay landscape. Available in a large 15-gallon size for instant impact.
- Form: Upright, compact
- Foliage: Deep burgundy-black — stunning contrast with blooms
- Bloom colors: Red, pink, white, and more
- Mature size: 8–12 ft tall
- Best for: Bold focal points, modern landscapes, smaller spaces
Shop Black Diamond Crape Myrtle →
Crape Myrtle Care Tips for Tampa Bay
- Planting: Choose a full-sun location with well-draining soil. Crape Myrtles need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for best blooming
- Watering: Water deeply and regularly after planting. Once established (6–12 months), they are very drought-tolerant
- Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in spring, summer, and fall. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote foliage over flowers
- Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter — remove dead wood and suckers from the base. Avoid heavy pruning (“Crepe Murder”) which weakens the tree and reduces blooms
- Deadheading: Trim spent blooms to encourage a second flush of flowers
- Mulching: Apply 3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature — keep mulch away from the trunk
Which Crape Myrtle is Right for Your Tampa Bay Yard?
- Want maximum color impact? → Black Diamond for its dramatic foliage + blooms
- Want a natural, full look? → Multi-stem for a lush, bushy silhouette
- Want a formal tree shape? → Single trunk for a clean, elegant form
- Have a smaller space? → Single trunk or Black Diamond for a more compact footprint
Shop Crape Myrtles with Local Tampa Bay Delivery
All of our Crape Myrtles are available for local delivery across Tampa Bay. Our team can help you choose the right variety, color, and size for your landscape.
Shop Multi Stem Crape Myrtles →
Shop Single Trunk Crape Myrtles →
Shop Black Diamond Crape Myrtles →