Lagerstroemia indica ‘Tuscarora’, commonly known as Tuscarora Crape Myrtle, is a show-stopping summer bloomer prized for its vibrant coral-pink flowers, attractive bark, and long-lasting seasonal interest. This beloved southern favorite produces massive clusters of vivid blooms from midsummer into early fall, bringing months of color to the landscape when many other shrubs have finished flowering. Its smooth, cinnamon-brown bark and lush dark green foliage add texture and contrast year-round, while its leaves turn bright orange and red in autumn, extending its beauty well beyond the growing season.

‘Tuscarora’ is part of the U.S. National Arboretum’s line of mildew-resistant crape myrtles, valued for their strong growth habit, reliable performance, and tolerance to heat, humidity, and drought. Its coral-red blossoms stand out boldly in full sun, making it an exceptional choice for gardens, streetscapes, and large landscape plantings.

Tuscarora Crape Myrtle thrives in full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but is remarkably tolerant of drought once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to encourage deep root development. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
This variety requires minimal maintenance, simply remove any dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Over-fertilizing or heavy pruning (“crape murder”) can reduce flower production, so prune lightly and only to shape or maintain size.‘Tuscarora’ is hardy in USDA Zones 7 to 9, thriving in warm, sunny climates with hot summers and mild winters. In cooler regions, it can be grown as a dieback shrub, returning each year from the roots after winter frost.

‘Tuscarora’ is a fast-growing deciduous tree or large shrub that typically reaches 15 to 20 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, forming an upright, vase-shaped habit. Its smooth, exfoliating bark peels to reveal shades of tan, gray, and cinnamon, providing striking winter interest. The large coral-pink flower panicles can reach up to 12 inches long, creating a brilliant display of color that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds throughout the summer.

Crape myrtles, including ‘Tuscarora’, are non-toxic to humans and pets, making them a safe addition to family gardens. They are also deer-resistant and generally unaffected by most pests and diseases, thanks to their strong genetic resistance to powdery mildew