Crimson Red Black Diamond Crape Myrtle

The Black Diamond Crape Myrtle variety represents the first series of true dark-leafed crape myrtles. The blooms of the Crimson Red Black Diamond come in a vibrant crimson red with bright yellow centers, which offset the intense hues of the leaves. When Crimson Red first starts to bloom, the bloom may appear white but will darken once fully opened. As with any bloom, the bloom will fade as time progresses. The bright blooms of the Black Diamond reach their productivity peak during the summer and fall months.

This variety has been described as having an intermediate growth habit, reaching 10 to 12 feet tall, a spread of 4 to 5 feet, and can be used as a specimen or in mass plantings. Crape Myrtles look particularly nice when lining driveways or fences, and can also be planted in a container on a deck or patio as long as the container is at least 12 inches in diameter. These crape myrtles are drought tolerant, mildew resistant and low maintenance. This crape myrtle can be used in Zones 2-5 if in a planter and brought in during the winter months. Zone 6 planting requires protection during the winter, otherwise it will die back to the ground and blooms will be sparse. The Black Diamond is hardy in Zones 7-9.