Crepe Myrtle ‘Natchez’
Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia indica 'Natchez'
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: East Asia
Plant Type: Deciduous tree
Overview
A standout white-flowering crepe myrtle for South Australian gardens. ‘Natchez’ delivers months of snow-white blooms, glowing autumn foliage, and smooth, peeling cinnamon bark—ideal as a statement feature or elegant avenue tree that thrives in heat.
Key Features
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Mature Size: 6-9 m H x 4-6 m W (upright, spreading canopy)
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Growth Rate: 40-60 cm per year under good conditions
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Foliage: Glossy mid-green; turns orange, red and burgundy in autumn
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Flowers: Large conical panicles of pure white blooms in summer (into early autumn)
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Seasonal Interest: Summer flowers → autumn foliage → winter bark – year-round appeal
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Wildlife Value: Nectar for bees and butterflies; bird-friendly habitat
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Tolerance: Heat and drought once established; light frost; excellent mildew resistance
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Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: 1 tree per 16-25 m² (4-5 m apart), depending on mature canopy
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Pet Friendly: Generally regarded as non-toxic to pets
Where It Works Best
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Sunlight: Full sun (essential for best flowering and compact growth)
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Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam
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Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8-12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10-14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
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Maintenance: Mulch in spring; light shape prune in late winter; remove spent flower clusters to encourage extra blooms; fertilise in early spring
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Lifespan: 25-50 years
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Climate Zones: Ideal for temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including inland heat and urban sites
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Soil pH: Slightly acid to neutral is ideal (tolerates mildly alkaline if well-drained)
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Statement feature tree near lawns, courtyards or driveways where summer flowers and patterned bark can be admired up close
- Avenues and street plantings: Upright habit and strong limbs suit lining boundaries and long drives
- Heat-smart planting: Pair with grasses and drought-tolerant perennials for a water-wise, modern summer display
Why You Will Love It
‘Natchez’ brings show-stopping white summer blooms, fiery autumn tones and decorative bark through winter—so your garden looks curated all year. Tough, sun-loving and mildew-resistant, it offers reliable performance with minimal fuss in hot SA conditions—a true investment tree that adds shade, value and seasonal drama.
