Natchez Crape Myrtle Tree

Natchez bears pure-white summer flowers, cinnamon-brown bark, and orange-red autumn foliage. North Carolina State Extension lists it as a shrub or small tree, with published mature heights ranging broadly from about 1.2 to 9.1 m and a width near 3.7 m; see its [cultivar listing](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lagerstroemia-indica/). ## Planting Give this deciduous crape myrtle full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Shelter it from strong winter winds and mulch the root zone in colder areas. Its changing size reflects the range reported for different sites and growth forms, so leave room for a mature small tree and avoid crowding it against structures. ## Seasonal interest The white flower clusters appear during the crape myrtle’s summer bloom period. Orange-red fall leaves and cinnamon-colored, exfoliating bark extend the display beyond flowering. NC State Extension describes Natchez as mildew resistant. ## Maintenance Water deeply during establishment and prolonged dry spells, then let the soil drain between waterings. Prune only when needed to remove damaged or crossing branches, preferably in late winter or spring before new growth. Avoid severe topping, which can spoil the branching form and reduce flowering.