Crepe Myrtles: 
Status in Florida: Cultivars of a species not native to Florida, but widely planted
Native Habitat: Lagerstroemia species are native to Asia
Growing Zones: 7-9
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Phenology: Deciduous
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
Soil Texture: Adaptable, prefers well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average; drought-tolerant once established
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Some
Keystone Plant: No
Maintenance Tips: Prune in late winter/early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and to shape
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
Historical Medicinal Uses: None widely recorded
Wildlife Benefit: Provides shelter for birds; flowers attract pollinators
 
'Natchez' Crepe Myrtle:
Size at Maturity: 20-30 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide
Growth Habit: Upright, vase-shaped
Bloom Season: Summer
Bloom Color: White
Bark: Exfoliating, smooth, light brown to cinnamon-colored
Recommended Landscape Uses: Specimen tree, street tree, large shrub
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
 
'Catawba' Crepe Myrtle:
Size at Maturity: 10-15 feet tall, 8-12 feet wide
Growth Habit: Multi-stemmed shrub or small tree
Bloom Season: Summer
Bloom Color: Dark purple
Bark: Exfoliating, smooth, brown to gray
Recommended Landscape Uses: Specimen tree, shrub border
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Caterpillar Host Plant: No