Wednesday, October 23, 2013

By Elena McDowell


When you look at a crape myrtle plant you may see a three foot shrub or a tree over thirty feet tall. They are a plant that has been cultivated into many different styles and multiple colored blossoms. They are originally from the Asian nations and flourish in India and Australia. They were introduced to Europe and North America in the seventeenth century. They do best in warmer climates around the equator.

With colors from dark ruby red to the deepest purples and whites the fifty or so varieties of myrtle seem to have something for everyone. The bark of these trees is generally smooth and light in color and sheds off in the winter months. A more durable and popular species comes with darker leaves and bark that was developed in Japan. This variety is becoming more desirable for commercial properties in their landscaping.

One more desirable aspect of this plant is that you can go from a seed to blooming foliage in one season. The foliage come in large cascading bunches of crepe textured blooms. They continue to bloom for up to three months and can add a touch of color to any home or business all summer long. They bloom longer than any other flowering tree.

These plants can grow in nearly any soil. The do not need special treatments or adages to the site you select. They require only a sunny, moist well drained spot and they will flourish. You must be careful not to allow the ground to become soggy though. This can damage the roots and cause molds and other diseases to happen. If molds do appear they can be easily controlled with an organic spray used on the underside of leaves.

Minimal pruning is needed for these plants. Too much will cause damage to the silhouette of the tree and can cause it to start growing bleeders from the base of the plant. When this starts to happen it generally cannot be stopped and causes extra work for the gardener.

The larger varieties of this tree can be used for lumber purposes. They have been used to build bridges as well as to create beautiful furniture. The wood has been proven to be strong as well as pliant and the uses for it are expanding. Another notable use for the timber is sleeper cars. The texture of the wood is so smooth and silky that it makes this one of the most appealing options.

A major benefit of this tree is found in East India where silk is made from the cocoons of caterpillars that prefer to dine on it's leaves. The silk is called tussar silk and is a very important part of life in India. The beautiful saris that are worn as traditional costuming among East Indian women are made from this fabric. It also is used for other clothing and crafts. It is considered a wild silk and the consumers view it with high regard.

The crape myrtle is a plant that will bring years of beauty to your life. They range from shrub to tree and have been developed to have a color that will suite most everyone. They also have uses beyond the yard decor they supply. If you are interested in plants that are easily cultivated and will give you first season blossoms you may want to look into getting one or more of these.




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