Crape Myrtles are a popular choice for garden enthusiasts due to their stunning flowers and attractive foliage. While most Crape Myrtle varieties have green leaves, there are a few cultivars that offer the unique feature of black leaves, or at least very dark maroon leaves. These varieties are highly sought after for their striking contrast with the vibrant flower colors. Let’s explore some Crape Myrtle cultivars that showcase black or dark foliage:
1. Ebony Flame Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia ‘Ebony Flame’): This cultivar stands out with its deep blackish-maroon leaves, providing a dramatic backdrop for its fiery red flowers. The combination of the dark foliage and vibrant blooms creates an eye-catching display in the garden.
2. Black Diamond Crape Myrtle series: The Black Diamond series offers a range of Crape Myrtle cultivars with dark foliage. Some popular options include ‘Best Red’, ‘Pure White’, ‘Red Hot’, and ‘Crimson Red’. These varieties feature deep maroon to black leaves that intensify the impact of their respective flower colors.
3. Black Diamond® Red Hot Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia ‘Black Diamond Red Hot’): This particular cultivar showcases glossy, near-black leaves that beautifully complement its bold red flowers. The contrast between the dark foliage and vibrant blooms creates a stunning visual effect.
4. Black Leaf Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia ‘Black Leaf’): As the name suggests, this cultivar boasts exceptionally dark foliage, ranging from deep maroon to nearly black. Its richly colored leaves provide a striking background for its abundant clusters of pink, red, or white flowers.
5. Black Magic Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia ‘Black Magic’): This cultivar offers dark maroon to nearly black leaves, adding an air of mystery and elegance to the garden. Its foliage provides a stunning contrast to the bright pink or lavender flowers that adorn its branches.
It’s worth noting that while these Crape Myrtle varieties have dark foliage, the color intensity may vary depending on the growing conditions, such as sunlight exposure and soil composition. Additionally, some cultivars may exhibit more intense black foliage when they are young, gradually transitioning to a deep maroon as they mature.
When incorporating Crape Myrtles with black or dark foliage into your landscape, consider their placement and surrounding plants. The contrast between the dark leaves and other vibrant foliage or flowers can create a visually captivating garden design. Whether you choose Ebony Flame, Black Diamond varieties, Black Leaf, or Black Magic, these Crape Myrtle cultivars with black or dark foliage will surely make a bold statement in your garden, adding depth and interest to your outdoor space.
