The Black Diamond® Shell Pink™ Crape Myrtle is a deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its striking appearance. It features abundant clusters of vibrant pink flowers that bloom in summer, contrasting beautifully with its dark foliage. The foliage emerges burgundy-purple in spring, maturing to a deep, glossy blackish-purple as the season progresses. This cultivar typically has a compact, upright growth habit, making it suitable for smaller landscapes and gardens. Although, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size if desired. It's often grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or trained into a single-trunked tree form. The Black Diamond® Shell Pink™ Crape Myrtle is an excellent choice if you want the dramatic look of the Black Diamond series but prefer a softer, more romantic flower color than the bold reds or purples. It works beautifully as a standalone specimen or as part of a high-contrast flowering hedge.
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Scientific Name
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Lagerstroemia indica 'Shell Pink' |
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Foliage: Deciduous
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Leaves: The foliage is a consistent obsidian-black with hints of dark wine. This dark backdrop makes the light-colored flowers appear to "glow" in the twilight.
Flowers: Large, ruffled clusters of soft coral-pink. The blooms are more delicate in tone compared to the 'Mystic Magenta,' offering a pastel contrast to the dark stems.
Bark: Smooth, light tan to silvery-gray. Like others in the series, the bark eventually peels to reveal a polished texture underneath.
Seeds: Small, dark woody capsules that form in late autumn. They are very hardy and can be left on the tree for winter texture or pruned to encourage new spring growth.
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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). Maximum sun is essential to maintain the dark leaf pigment.
Water Requirements: Moderate. Requires regular watering during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep root system.
Drought Resistance: High. Once established, it is exceptionally drought and heat tolerant.
Soil Type: Adaptable. Thrives in well-drained loams, clay, or sandy soils; prefers slightly acidic pH.
Deer Resistance: High. Generally avoided by deer.
Propagation: Propagation of the Black Diamond® Shell Pink™ Crape Myrtle is typically done 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.
Landscaping Uses: The Black Diamond® Shell Pink™ Crape Myrtle adds vibrant color and visual interest to landscapes, gardens, and streetscapes. Plant it as a focal point in the garden, along property lines for privacy, or in mixed borders for seasonal color. It also makes an attractive container plant for patios, decks, and entryways.
