Colorama™ Pearl Crape Myrtle Tree

Stunning blooms and a resilient landscape favorite The Colorama™ Pearl Crape Myrtle Tree stands out in any garden with its stunning clusters of delicate, pearl-white blooms that create a striking contrast against the deep green foliage. This hardy shrub not only adds elegance to your landscape, but its upright habit also makes it perfect for smaller spaces or as a backdrop for mixed borders. Beyond its beauty, this plant is a natural attraction for birds and butterflies, making it a delightful addition for wildlife lovers. One of the standout features of this crape myrtle is its exceptional drought tolerance, allowing it to thrive even in less-than-ideal conditions. Plus, it easily tolerates clay soil, which makes it a suitable choice for a variety of landscapes. Planting Colorama™ Pearl Crape myrtle means adding vibrant life to your garden without extensive maintenance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both beauty and practicality. Planting & Care 1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for optimal growth. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and place the shrub so the top of the root ball sits slightly above ground level to promote good drainage. Backfill with a mix of native soil and compost, then water deeply after planting. Apply a 3-inch settled layer of mulch extending about 3 feet around the tree, keeping mulch pulled back a few inches from the trunk. 2. Watering: Water deeply 2–3 times per week during the first growing season to establish strong, deep roots. Full establishment may take up to three years. Once established, this shrub is water-wise and drought tolerant, performing well with about 1 inch of rainfall per week. Supplemental watering is only needed during extended dry periods or if leaves show signs of wilting. 3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage healthy growth and maintain the desired shape. Remove any dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation and overall plant health. Maintain no more than five main trunks, removing root suckers as they appear. Avoid topping crape myrtles, as this practice reduces vigor and weakens the tree. 4. Fertilizing: In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as Espoma Garden Food® 10-10-10 to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.