The correct spelling of the flowering plant is "crepe myrtle", which is pronounced /kreɪp ˈmɜːrtəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word "crepe" refers to the delicate, crinkled texture of the flowers, while "myrtle" is the name of the tree that produces the blooms. The spelling can be confusing for some, as "crepe" is typically spelled with an "e" at the end, but in this case, it is spelled with just an "e". However, the pronunciation stays the same regardless of the spelling.
Crepe Myrtle, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia, is a small to medium-sized deciduous flowering tree or shrub that belongs to the family Lythraceae. It is native to eastern Asia and is particularly prevalent in China, Japan, Korea, and India. The name "crepe myrtle" is derived from the flowers' delicate, crinkled petals that resemble crepe paper, and the distinctive peeling bark that resembles the texture of crepe fabric.
Crepe Myrtle typically has a multi-stemmed or single-trunked growth habit, with a rounded or vase-shaped crown. It can reach a height of 20 to 30 feet and has a spread of 15 to 25 feet, making it an ideal option for small gardens, urban landscapes, and containers. The leaves of crepe myrtle are opposite, simple, and typically ovate with a glossy green color that turns red, orange, or yellow in the fall.
One of the most notable features of crepe myrtle is its abundant and vibrant flowers, which bloom in large clusters at the tips of branches during the summer months. The flowers are available in a wide array of colors, including shades of pink, purple, red, and white. Often, the blooms appear before the new leaves emerge, creating an eye-catching display of color against the backdrop of the tree's bark.
Crepe Myrtle is highly valued in horticulture for its ornamental features, adaptability to varying soil conditions, and ability to withstand urban environments. It is widely cultivated as a landscape plant due to its showy flowers, attractive bark, and its ability to provide shade when grown as a tree. Additionally, some varieties are bred to exhibit a more compact growth habit, making them suitable for smaller gardens or
The word "crepe myrtle" has an interesting etymology.
The term "crepe" is derived from the French word "crepe", which means "crinkled" or "frizzled". This term refers to the delicate texture of the flowers and petals of the crepe myrtle tree.
The word "myrtle" traces its origins to the Ancient Greek word "myrtos". The myrtle tree (Myrtus) was highly regarded in ancient times for its delicate, aromatic flowers and its association with love, marriage, and beauty.
So, when combined, "crepe myrtle" essentially refers to the crinkled or frizzled flowers of the myrtle tree. The name perfectly describes the beautiful, crinkled blossoms that grace the crepe myrtle tree.