The Natchez crapemyrtle is found in several areas of the Park, but it’s most abundant in the Tribeca section. These trees are beautiful year-round, featuring large white flowers during the summer months and cinnamon exfoliating brown bark that provides ornamental interest throughout the year. Crapemyrtles don’t like cold weather and are generally found in the southern states; however, the Natchez variety can tolerate slightly colder weather and will survive in the NYC climate.
Origin: China and Korea
Lifespan: Up to 50 years
Height: 15 to 25 Feet
What makes Natchez crapemyrtle’s unique:
- Shakespeare wondered, “What’s in a name?” When it comes to crapemyrtles, that is a very good question. Crape Myrtle, Crepe Myrtle, crape myrtle and crepe-myrtle are the various spellings that appear in different places.
- Crapemyrtles have a seedpod that will stain concrete, and they should be planted away from areas where this might occur.
- Crapemyrtles attract bees and provide a habitat for birds. Many different birds eat the seeds which remain available all winter.
