Lagerstroemia Indica 'Sioux'

Crepe Myrtle ‘Sioux’

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia indica 'Sioux'
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: East Asia
Plant Type: Deciduous tree

Overview

A premium pink-flowering crepe myrtle with months of colour, glowing autumn foliage, and smooth, exfoliating bark. ‘Sioux’ performs beautifully in South Australian gardens—heat-smart, mildew-resistant and low-maintenance once established.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 4-5 m H x 2.5-3.5 m W
• Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Dark glossy green; bronze/copper tints on new growth; orange-red to burgundy in autumn
• Flowers: Large panicles of bright/hot pink blooms in summer (often into early autumn)
  
• Seasonal Interest: Spring flush of glossy new growth, months of bright pink summer flowers and fiery autumn colour, followed by smooth, exfoliating cinnamon bark that stands out through winter.
• Wildlife Value: Nectar attracts bees; pollinator-friendly
• Tolerance: Heat-Tolerant, Drought-Tolerant (once established), Frost Hardy (light–moderate), Wind-Tolerant (shelter while young), Coastal-Tolerant (light salt/sea breeze), Clay-Tolerant (in well-drained clay loams; avoid waterlogging); naturally mildew-resistant
• Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: 1 tree per 9-16 m² (3-4 m apart), depending on mature canopy
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun is essential (6+ hrs) for best flowering and compact habit; hot summers boost bloom
• Soil: Well-drained loam to clay loam; avoid waterlogging
• 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.
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; light shape prune in late winter; remove spent flower clusters in summer to tidy and encourage extra bloom; balanced feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 25-50 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral; tolerates mildly alkaline if drainage is good

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Statement feature near lawns, courtyards or driveways where pink bloom and patterned bark shine
• Avenues/streetscapes: Narrow, upright habit suits 4–5 m rhythmic spacing
• Heat-smart combos: Pair with silver foliage and ornamental grasses for a water-wise, modern summer look

Why You Will Love It

‘Sioux’ gives you intense pink summer colour without fuss, then turns on fiery autumn tones and handsome exfoliating bark through winter—so your garden looks curated year-round. It’s sun-loving, mildew-resistant and proven in Australian conditions—an easy, high-impact feature or avenue tree.