Thunderstruck™ Lavender Blast™ Crape Myrtle Tree

Thunderstruck™ Lavender Blast™ is a deciduous crape myrtle with lavender summer-to-fall flowers against glossy, near-black foliage. Its strong contrast gives a sunny border or specimen planting color across much of the growing season. ## Form and season The selection is *Lagerstroemia* × ‘JM3’, listed under U.S. Plant Patent PP31555. Garden Debut reports a mature size of 12–15 feet tall and 8–12 feet wide, matching the catalog’s displayed ranges. The site lists full sun and USDA Zone 6; local exposure and winter conditions still affect performance. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny, well-drained site with room for the mature spread. Water consistently during establishment and through extended dry weather. Crape myrtles flower on new growth, and open air circulation helps keep foliage healthy. ## Maintenance Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain the natural form. Avoid severe topping, which can weaken the structure and reduce the summer display. Watch for aphids and spider mites, especially on tender growth. [Garden Debut’s exact plant page](https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Thunderstruck-Lavender-Blast-Crapemyrtle) identifies the cultivar, patent, bloom, foliage, dimensions, and exposure; [NC Cooperative Extension](https://sampson.ces.ncsu.edu/news/crape-myrtles/) provides general care guidance.