Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica Red Flowering

Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica or Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica is a pretty deciduous shrub with vibrant pinky-red flowers. It suits a mixed border and is useful as a late flowering ornamental shrub. Lagerstroemia Indica is native to Korea. It was introduced to Britain in 1759 and became better known here as a Crape Myrtle. There are many cultivars but the Rubra Magnifica cultivar is a dark pink to red flowering version with a sweet, delicate scent. 

In spring Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica produces large dark green oval leaves that measure up to 8 inches in length. Flowers arrive in a flush of frilly bright red and are especially long-lasting. They arrive in late summer and finish in September, sometimes lasting longer if the weather is warm. As the flowers age they fade to pretty pale pink. The blooms are large, measuring up to 18 inches, and look like crepe paper hence the name crape myrtle. The flowers mature into seeds capsules and leaves turn fiery hues of red and orange before falling with the frosts. In winter its bark is attractive, often peeling to reveal lighter fresh bark beneath in mature specimens. 

Height and Spread of Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica
Rubra Magnifica will reach a maximum height of three metres and spread over two metres. In hot conditions they may grow a little larger but are easily kept smaller with pruning. 

How Hardy Is Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica
Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica is hardy down to sub-zero temperatures and has good resistance to pests and disease. Once established it can tolerate drought. 

How To Use Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica 
Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica, is a stunning ornamental specimen bush or tree for a mixed border or simply set in the lawn. A group of crape myrtles in mixed colours or an eye-catching row of reds creates a long flowering screen for the summer months that’s reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The bright flowers of crape myrtle red are attractive to pollinators so it’s a good addition to a wildlife-friendly garden and because Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica flowers in August and September it’s a good shrub to extend the flowering season. Lagerstroemia Indica Red Flowering is at its best when bedding plants and summer shrubs are starting to fade.

How To Care For Lagerstroemia Indica Rubra Magnifica
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Flowering enjoys full sun and flowers best when it’s grown in a hot spot with lots of shelter. Grow yours against a sunny wall or fence line for the best effect. Crape Myrtle Rubra Magnifica is not fussy about soil type but will grow faster in moist and fertile well-drained conditions. There is no need to prune Lagerstroemia but if you need to restrict the height or width cut back branches in winter before foliage begins to appear. In spring apply a thick layer of mulch around the roots to provide nutrients for a healthy growing season.