Lagerstroemia indica Rose Fuchsia

NB: Carl Linnaeus named this tree in honour of his friend Magnus von Lagerstroem (1696 – 1759), who had sent it to him from India for identification. Originally, this tree was used to decorate Chinese temples.

Lagerstroemia indica 'Rose Fuchsia' is a fairly old cultivar, commonly found in south-west France and often overlooked in favour of modern cultivars despite its fine presence in the garden.

It is a small tree or large shrub of the Lythraceae family, native to China. It has a bushy, branching habit with a rounded crown. It will reach an average of 4 m in height at maturity, with a spread of 3 m. I

ts growth is fairly fast. It needs heat to flower and often chooses mid-July to begin blooming, which then continues until October.

he gorgeous flowers of Lagerstroemia 'Rubra' open a rich, deep red before gradually maturing to a vivid bright pink, creating a striking two-tone display. New growth emerges in attractive shades of red, while the glossy green foliage transforms into beautiful ochre-red tones in autumn, adding outstanding seasonal interest.This deciduous shrub or compact small tree typically reaches 7–8 m (23–26 ft) in height with a spread of 3–4 m (10–13 ft). Its smooth, light brown bark peels on mature specimens to reveal decorative pinkish patches beneath, while the young branches are subtly winged along their four angles. The elliptic to oblong leaves are glossy green throughout summer before turning rich shades of ochre-red in autumn. The leaves are sessile or carried on very short stalks, measuring 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) long, with fine hairs along the veins on their undersides.From June to October, Lagerstroemia 'Rubra' produces abundant, lightly fragrant flower panicles 20–25 cm (8–10 in) long. Each crinkled bloom measures 2.5–3 cm (1–1.2 in) across and features six delicately fringed petals with long, slender claws surrounding a prominent cluster of 36–42 stamens, giving the flowers their distinctive crepe-like appearance. The blooms are followed by small seed capsules.With only moderate hardiness, this variety is best suited to the milder climates of southern France (south of the Loire) or to sheltered, frost-free gardens and conservatories. Like all crape myrtles, it requires plenty of summer warmth and full sun to produce its spectacular floral display. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and, once established, shows good tolerance of heat and short periods of drought.Please note: The shape and fullness of the crown on standard (tree-form) specimens will vary depending on the season in which the plant is purchased. Standard specimens are generally pruned in late autumn to maintain their attractive form and encourage vigorous flowering the following season.