Crepe Myrtle 'Biloxi'
Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia indica 'Biloxi'
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: East Asia
Plant Type: Deciduous tree
Overview
‘Biloxi’ is a standout, mildew-resistant crape myrtle prized for months of soft shell-pink blossom, brilliant autumn colour and beautiful, mottled peeling bark. It thrives in South Australian sun and heat, giving you a reliable, low-maintenance feature that looks premium year-round.
Key Features
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Mature Size: 6-9 m H x 4-6 m W (forms a broad, rounded crown)
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Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
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Foliage: Mid-green spring–summer; turns orange, bronze and red in autumn
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Flowers: Large soft pink panicles of crinkled blooms; lightly fragrant
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Seasonal Interest: Summer–autumn flowers, vivid autumn foliage, decorative cinnamon/cream exfoliating bark in winter
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Wildlife Value: Attracts bees & butterflies; good for pollinators
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Tolerance: Drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, light frost hardy once established; copes with urban conditions
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Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: 1 tree per 16-36 m² (4-6 m apart), depending on mature canopy
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Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to pets
Where It Works Best
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Sunlight: Full sun (6–8+ hrs/day) for best flowering; light part shade tolerated
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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; prune in late winter to shape and remove old seed heads; feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser
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Lifespan: 25-50+ years
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Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
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Soil pH: Acid or Neutral (slightly acidic ideal)
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Statement feature for front lawns or courtyards—flowers, bark and autumn colour deliver four-season impact
- Flowering avenue or driveway tree—space 4–6 m apart for an elegant canopy tunnel
- Poolside or alfresco anchor—clean habit, minimal litter, and long bloom season create a resort feel
Why You Will Love It
‘Biloxi’ gives you months of blossom with very little fuss and still looks stunning when out of flower thanks to its autumn colour and patterned bark. It’s tough in heat and drought, attracts pollinators, and instantly lifts street appeal—a premium, low-maintenance hero tree for modern gardens.
