The Black Diamond® Mystic Magenta™ Crape Myrtle is renowned for its abundant clusters of vibrant magenta flowers that bloom profusely in summer. Complementing these vivid blooms is its unique foliage, which emerges burgundy-purple in spring, darkening to a rich, glossy blackish-purple hue as the season progresses. This cultivar exhibits a compact, upright growth habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes and gardens.However, its size may vary depending on environmental conditions and pruning practices. It can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or trained into a single-trunked tree form. Regular pruning can help maintain its compact shape and promote abundant flowering. 'Mystic Magenta' is the choice for gardeners who want a "pop" of tropical-looking color. The magenta is so bright it can be seen from across the yard, making it an excellent focal point or specimen plant for a corner that needs more personality.
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Scientific Name
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Lagerstroemia indica 'Mystic Magenta' |
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Foliage: Deciduous
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Leaves: The foliage is a rich, dark wine-black. The leaves have a glossy sheen that makes the dark pigment look almost metallic in the sunlight.
Flowers: Masses of vibrant, hot pink (magenta) blooms. The clusters are dense and crinkled, creating a massive splash of neon color against the dark backdrop of the tree.
Bark: Smooth and taupe or light brown. As it matures, it exhibits the characteristic Crape Myrtle "peeling" or exfoliating texture, though it is usually kept in a multi-stemmed shrub form.
Seeds: Small, woody spherical pods. They start out dark green/purple and transition to a dried-out brown in the fall.
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Mature Height
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10-12 feet |
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Mature Width (Spread)
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6-8 feet |
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Growth Rate
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Moderate (1-2 feet per year) |
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USDA Zone
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6-10 |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Full Sun (6+ hours). Essential for maintaining the intense black leaf color.
Water Requirements: Moderate. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system, then reduce watering once the plant is established (1–2 seasons).
Drought Resistance: High. Once established, it is very heat-hardy and drought-tolerant.
Soil Type: Adaptable. Prefers well-drained soil; thrives in loam, sand, or clay with a slightly acidic pH.
Deer Resistance: High. Deer generally do not find the foliage or flowers appealing.
Landscaping Uses: The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is an eye-catching addition to landscapes, gardens, and streetscapes. It can be planted as a focal point in the garden, along property lines for privacy, or in mixed borders for seasonal color. Additionally, it makes a stunning container plant for patios, decks, and entryways, providing vibrant blooms and foliage throughout the summer months.
Propagation: Propagation of the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is typically achieved through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Select healthy, vigorous stems and cut them into 4- to 6-inch sections, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light until roots develop.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth and prolific flowering.
