If you’re planning a bold, heat-tolerant addition to your yard, crape myrtles are a standout choice. This guide highlights five crape myrtles you can buy in 5-gallon size or near-equivalents, with a focus on bloom color, foliage, and growth habit to fit American landscapes. Whether you want dramatic purple blooms, rich pinks, or watermelon-red blossoms, these selections offer reliable performance in sunny, warm climates and provide year-round visual appeal.
Summary of Selected Products:
| Product | Brand | Size/Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Gal. First Editions Twilight Magic Crape Myrtle Shrub | First Editions | 5 Gal. | Balanced height and width; reliable zones 7-9 |
| Purple Magic Crape Myrtle, Vibrant Purple Blooms | Pixies Gardens | 5 Gal./Single | Vivid purple blooms; dark foliage |
| Pink Crape Myrtle Tree – Bright Pink Blooms | Pixies Gardens | 5 Gal. | Large flower clusters; versatile landscape tree |
| Proven Winners Center Stage Pink (2 Gal.) | Proven Winners | 2 Gal. | Compact flowering option with pink blooms |
| Proven Winners Center Stage Red (2 Gal.) | Proven Winners | 2 Gal. | Vibrant red blooms; sturdy growth |
5 Gal. First Editions Twilight Magic Crape Myrtle Shrub
- Brand: First Editions
- USDA Zones: 7-9
- Growth: 6-8 ft wide, 12-14 ft tall
- Foliage: Deciduous, with winter leaf drop and spring regrowth
- Water and sun: Full sun preferred; moderate watering needs
Purple Magic Crape Myrtle, 5 Gallon
- Brand: Pixies Gardens
- Blooms: Rich purple clusters
- Foliage: Dark burgundy to near-black leaves
- Care: Full sun; drought-tolerant once established
2 Gallon Proven Winners Center Stage Pink Crape Myrtle
- Brand: Proven Winners
- Zones: 6-10
- Size at maturity: 96 in W x 72-144 in H
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
Proven Winners Center Stage Red Crape Myrtle Shrub
- Brand: Proven Winners
- Zones: 7-9
- Size at maturity: 96 in W x 72-144 in H
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
Pink Crape Myrtle Tree – Bright Pink Blooms (5 Gallon)
- Brand: Pixies Gardens
- Blooms: Bright pink clusters
- Landscape use: Borders, driveways, lawn centerpiece
- Year-round interest: Green foliage with seasonal color
Tonto Crape Myrtle: Watermelon Red, Dwarf Tree
- Brand: Southern Charm Crape Myrtles, LLC
- Size: 8-10 ft tall and wide (mature)
- Blooms: Dark watermelon red
- Growth: Fast-growing, good for privacy hedges
6 Pack Red Flowering Crape Myrtle Trees
- Brand: Crape Myrtle Guy
- Size: Quart Container; 6-12 inches tall at shipping
- Growth: Red blooms, grows to 20+ feet tall
- Notes: Regional shipping restrictions may apply
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for Crape Myrtles
- Bloom color and foliage: Purple, pink, red, and coral tones offer different landscape moods. Foliage color (green or burgundy) adds contrast year-round.
- Hardiness and climate: Check USDA zone compatibility. The most reliable performers in warm summers are zones 6-10, with some varieties tolerating cooler conditions.
- Sun exposure: Full sun yields the best bloom; partial shade can reduce flowering intensity.
- Maintenance needs: Most crape myrtles require minimal pruning beyond removing dead stems. Drought tolerance improves after establishment.
- Size at maturity: Consider space for width and height. Some cultivars remain compact, while others can reach substantial sizes.
- Soil and watering: Well-draining soil is ideal. Water deeply during establishment; avoid overwatering once settled.
- Aesthetic use: Use as specimen plants, border accents, or privacy hedges to structure your yard.