Crapemyrtle 'Miss Sandra'

Miss Sandra is a purple-flowering crapemyrtle with a compact, upright branching habit and green foliage. Southern Living gives a mature size of 15–20 feet high by 8–10 feet wide, with long-lasting flower clusters in summer. Use it as a flowering specimen or in a sunny hedge or mixed border with enough space for its mature width. ## Seasonal Interest Large purple panicles provide the main display through summer. The plant is deciduous; its upright crown and exfoliating bark add structure after leaf fall. The USDA release describes the selection as an elite purple-flowered seedling with a tight vertical growth habit. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Water deeply during establishment and through prolonged dry periods, then avoid persistently wet soil. The USDA report says crapemyrtles flower best with adequate moisture and balanced fertility. Southern Living lists USDA Zones 7a–9b; the USDA release describes top hardiness around Zone 7 and possible root hardiness to Zone 6 when plants are properly hardened. ## Maintenance Leave the natural upright form intact and remove only damaged, crossing, or poorly placed branches in winter if pruning is needed. Sources: [USDA Agricultural Research Service release](https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publication/?seqNo115=316298), [Southern Living plant profile](https://southernlivingplants.com/the-collection/plant/miss-sandra-crapemyrtle/).