Trees · Crape myrtles
Crape Myrtle 'White Lightning™'
Lagerstroemia Thunderstruck™ 'White Lightning™'
Panther Creek plant details (wholesale reference)
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Overview
Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crape myrtle, is a genus of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Indian subcontinent, southeast Asia, northern Australia, and other parts of Oceania, cultivated in warmer climates around the world.
It is a reliable choice for a focal-point specimen in the Triangle. Between the clay soil and humid summers, this tree stands out for its showy flowers and overall landscape durability.
At a glance
Sun
Water & soil
Flowers & fragrance
Foliage & season
Habit & use
Best landscape uses
Best landscape uses
Growing & care
Practical notes for establishment and seasonal care in the Triangle—adjust for local soil tests and microclimate.
Light
Full sun
Watering Procedure
Water consistently during the first season until roots are established. Once settled, this variety is notably resilient during our typical North Carolina dry spells.
Planting & Soil
Thrives in well-drained soil. Dig your hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Mix 30% compost with your native clay backfill to open up the soil—this helps the roots breathe and prevents water from pooling. Planting 'slightly high' also ensures the roots stay healthy.
Fertilization
Fertilize sparingly if at all. A light spring application is usually enough; over-fertilizing evergreens in our humidity can lead to weak, leggy growth.
Pruning / upkeep
Prune shortly after the flowers fade. This ensures you aren't cutting off the buds for next year's bloom cycle.
Common questions
Does Crape Myrtle 'White Lightning™' lose its leaves in winter?
No, Crape Myrtle 'White Lightning™' is an evergreen tree and retains its foliage year-round.
How much sun does Crape Myrtle 'White Lightning™' need?
It performs best in full sun, meaning it prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Is Crape Myrtle 'White Lightning™' drought tolerant?
Yes, once its root system is fully established, it is resilient during dry spells. However, it requires consistent watering during its first season in the ground.
Reference context includes Wikipedia (“Lagerstroemia”), licensed under CC BY-SA.