The Craple Myrtle

This beautiful small tree comes from the open deciduous forests, grassland, and cliffs of China, Japan, Indochina and the Himalayas. The generic name (Lagerstroemia) is devoted to the naturalist and Linnaeus’ friend, the Swede, Magnus von Lagerstrom (1696-1759), whereas the specific name (indica) refers to one of its habitats, the Indomalayan islands.
It was introduced in Europe in 1759. It has a great aesthetic value throughout the year.
In spring, the reddish color of its leaves turns progressively to green. In summer, its magnificent bloom stands out. In autumn, the reddish color of its foliage reappears. And in winter, the architectonic form of its trunk and the nice texture of its bark excel remarkably.
In Granada, a special technic of prunning this species it is practiced, and is admired by the rest of gardening professionals nationwide.