Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'SMNLCIBF'

Proven Winners®

Nearly Black Foliage Makes Cherry-Red Flowers Pop Like No Other Dark Red Crape Myrtle
Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Zones 6-10
Grows 6-12 ft Tall, 8-12 ft Wide
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Pollution Tolerant
Ideal for Privacy Screen or Hedge

$26⁵⁹

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Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle makes an unforgettable statement with its glowing cherry-red flowers blazing against nearly black foliage, one of the most dramatic color combinations in the summer landscape. This large shrub or small tree blooms from midsummer through early fall, filling the garden with panicles of vivid crimson flowers that contrast magnificently with the deep burgundy-black leaves. Mildew resistant and heat-loving, it thrives where summers are long and hot.

Cherry-red flowers blaze against nearly black foliage from midsummer through fall
Deep burgundy-black foliage holds intense color all season long
Earlier and longer bloom time than most conventional crape myrtles
Exceptional disease resistance, highly mildew tolerant, foliage stays pristine
Large shrub/small tree, 6–12 ft. tall, 8 ft. wide, commanding specimen or screen
Heat tolerant and deer resistant
Hardy in Zones 6–10

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle thrives in full sun (6+ hours daily) with moist, well-drained soil. Maximize flowering by planting in the sunniest location possible; this plant loves heat and humidity. Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, it handles periods of drought well. Avoid overwatering to maintain best bloom density. Prune lightly in late winter, removing only crossing branches, no heavy “topping” needed. This vigorous, disease-resistant beauty earns its name: it’s always the center stage. Order today and set your summer garden on fire!

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Growing Zones 6-10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What planting zones is the Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle hardy in?

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. This heat-loving shrub thrives where summers are long and hot, making it ideal for warmer climates. Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best performance.

Does Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle need full sun or can it tolerate partial shade?

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle requires full sun (6+ hours daily) for optimal flowering and won't perform well in partial shade. This heat-loving plant maximizes its cherry-red blooms when planted in the sunniest location possible. Choose your brightest spot for best results, available at naturehills.com.

How often should I water my newly planted Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle?

Water deeply 2-3 times per week during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Focus on consistent moisture rather than frequent shallow watering. Once established, your crape myrtle becomes quite drought tolerant, so you can reduce watering frequency significantly.

How fast does this variety grow compared to other crape myrtles?

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle is a vigorous grower that reaches 6-12 feet tall and 8 feet wide at maturity. It also blooms earlier and longer than most conventional crape myrtles, giving you more color impact per season. Plant in full sun and expect steady, robust growth in zones 6-10.

Is Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle deer resistant?

Yes, Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle is deer resistant and thrives in zones 6-10. The deep burgundy-black foliage and cherry-red blooms remain undamaged by browsing deer throughout the long summer flowering season. Available at naturehills.com for gardens needing both beauty and wildlife protection.

How much fertilizer does Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle need and when should I apply it?

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle needs minimal fertilization once established. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins, then once more in midsummer during peak bloom period. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flowering and make foliage more susceptible to disease.

Does Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle require regular pruning and if so, when should I prune it?

Center Stage® Red Crape Myrtle needs only light pruning in late winter. Remove crossing or damaged branches, but avoid heavy "topping" which reduces flowering. This variety's natural form requires minimal shaping to maintain its 6-12 ft. height and 8 ft. spread.