Lagerstroemia Fauriei 'Kiowa'

Crepe Myrtle ‘Kiowa’

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia fauriei 'Kiowa'
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: Japan (East Asia)
Plant Type: Deciduous tree

Overview

A premium white-flowering crape myrtle prized for its huge summer blooms, brilliant autumn colour and handsome, mottled bark. ‘Kiowa’ brings four seasons of show—perfect as a standout feature or elegant avenue tree in South Australian gardens. Naturally powdery-mildew resistant, heat tolerant and low-maintenance once established.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 6–9 m H × 4–6 m W (upright, spreading canopy)
• Growth Rate: 40-60 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Glossy mid-green; turns orange, red and burgundy in autumn
• Flowers: Large conical panicles of pure white blooms in summer
  
• Seasonal Interest: Summer flowers → autumn foliage → winter bark – year-round appeal
• Wildlife Value: Nectar for bees and butterflies; bird-friendly habitat
• Tolerance: Heat and drought once established; light frost; excellent mildew resistance
• Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: 1 tree per 16-25 m² (4-5 m apart), depending on desired canopy
• Pet Friendly: Generally regarded as non-toxic to pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun (essential for best flowering and compact growth)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam
• 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 to encourage extra blooms; fertilise in early spring
• Lifespan: 25-50 years
• Climate Zones: Ideal for temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including inland heat and urban sites
• 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 make ‘Kiowa’ superb for 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

‘Kiowa’ delivers show-stopping white blooms through summer, fiery autumn colour, and decorative bark through winter—so your garden looks curated all year. It’s tough, sun-loving and mildew-resistant, meaning less fuss and more consistent performance even in hot SA conditions. A true investment tree that adds value, shade and seasonal drama with minimal effort.