Description: The Crape Myrtle ‘Ebony Fire’ is a deciduous ornamental shrub or small tree renowned for its vivid, deep red flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers are arranged in striking panicles at the branch tips, creating a bold and long-lasting display. Its dark green foliage provides a rich backdrop during the growing season and transitions to warm shades of red and orange in the fall. In addition to its flowers, the ‘Ebony Fire’ Crape Myrtle features smooth, attractive bark that adds year-round visual interest.

Size: Crape Myrtle ‘Ebony Fire’ typically grows to a height of 12 to 15 feet (3.7 to 4.6 meters) with a spread of 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) at maturity. Available in 3-gallon and 7-gallon sizes, these plants have an upright, vase-shaped growth habit with multiple stems emerging from the base. They can be pruned to maintain a more compact size or allowed to grow taller as a beautiful accent or specimen plant.

Best Growing Zones: This Crape Myrtle thrives in warm, temperate climates and is suited to USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9. It performs best in full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant and handles periods of dry weather well.

Soil Requirements: ‘Ebony Fire’ Crape Myrtles prefer well-drained, fertile soils with adequate moisture retention. They adapt to sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as drainage is sufficient. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or peat moss before planting can help improve soil structure and promote healthy growth.

Maintenance: This variety is low-maintenance once established but benefits from regular pruning to remove dead, diseased, or overgrown branches and maintain the desired shape. Light pruning can be done during the growing season, while more extensive pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect shallow roots.