Gift that became an obsession — Crepe Myrtle

Someone gave me Crepe Myrtle as a birthday gift and I barely knew what it was. Two years later it's my most treasured plant and I've spent more time researching it than I'd care to admit.

The key discovery was staking correctly with a low stake to allow the trunk to flex and strengthen — once that clicked, the plant transformed. exceptional seasonal spectacle from blossom through autumn colour is what gets mentioned every time anyone visits. I keep it in a garden focal point visible from the house windows which works perfectly. blossom or leaf burst in spring creating dramatic transformation is when I understand why this plant has such devoted followers. honey fungus affecting roots especially on stressed trees is the one ongoing challenge but it's worth the effort.