Black Diamond® Radiant Red Crape Myrtle

Black Diamond® Radiant Red™ combines nearly black foliage with red crape myrtle flowers, blooming from late spring into fall. The developer lists it at about 12 feet tall by 8 feet wide and describes it as drought tolerant once established. ## Form and seasonal color The named Radiant Red™ selection (Lagerstroemia indica ‘JBG 19101’) has dark leaves that hold their black color best in full sun. Red flowers appear from late spring through fall; the foliage is colorful from early spring into fall. The developer lists the plant as an annual for zones 2–5, a perennial in zone 6, and a deciduous shrub or small tree in zones 7–10. Its listed mature spread suits a sunny focal point, flowering hedge, or large container. ## Siting Choose a location with at least six hours of direct sun each day. Full sun supports the darkest foliage. Allow roughly eight feet of spacing for the listed mature width. The developer describes this selection as heat tolerant and highly resistant to mildew. ## Maintenance Water thoroughly every other day during the first month after planting, then adjust to rainfall and soil drainage. Once established, it is drought tolerant, though supplemental water may help during prolonged dry weather. Keep mulch around the base year-round and apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Prune selectively to encourage branching and shape; avoid severe topping. See [J. Berry Nursery’s Radiant Red™ plant details](https://www.jberrynursery.com/portfolio/black-diamond-crapemyrtle-radiant-red) for the selection’s specifications and care guidance.