Lagerstroemia 'Slender Black' - Crepe Myrtle

Lagerstroemia 'Slender Black' - (Crepe Myrtle) Create a striking architectural feature with Lagerstroemia 'Slender Black™', an upright ornamental Crepe Myrtle renowned for its dramatic near-black foliage, masses of vibrant pink flowers and exceptionally narrow growth habit. Unlike traditional Crepe Myrtles, this compact cultivar grows as a slim column, making it ideal for tight spaces, narrow gardens, feature planting and modern landscapes. Throughout summer, brilliant clusters of vivid pink, crepe-like flowers contrast beautifully against the rich dark foliage, creating a spectacular display. As the seasons change, the leaves develop warm autumn tones before falling to reveal attractive smooth, mottled bark that provides additional winter interest. Position ‘Slender Black’ thrives in full sun and performs best in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. It is heat and drought tolerant once established and flourishes in temperate, subtropical, and Mediterranean climates. Full sun ensures the most prolific flowering. Growth At maturity, Slender Black™ forms a slender, upright tree with a naturally narrow canopy, making it perfect for areas where space is limited. It can reach 3-4 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide. During summer, the deep burgundy to almost black foliage is covered with vibrant pink flower clusters, creating a stunning contrast. In autumn, the foliage develops rich seasonal colours before falling to reveal the tree's smooth, mottled bark, ensuring year-round ornamental appeal. Planting Guide Lagerstroemia ‘Slender Black’ grows best in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Spacing for feature tree or avenue planting, space approx. 1.5-2 metres apart. Plant Care Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency as the plant becomes more drought-tolerant. Prune during late winter to early spring while the tree is dormant and before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches, along with any shoots emerging from the base, to maintain an open, well-shaped canopy.