How to Grow Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour'
Wikimedia Commons
Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour'
Lagerstroemia indica 'Pink Velour'
shrubCrape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' is a deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its vibrant pink flowers and attractive exfoliating bark. This cultivar produces abundant clusters of ruffled pink blooms throughout summer and fall, with foliage that turns brilliant orange-red in autumn. It's a compact, disease-resistant variety ideal for landscapes, borders, and container growing.
When should you plant Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-10; performs well in warm climates with hot summers
Sign up free to see if Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
8-12 weeksYoung plant focuses on root development with modest foliage growth
Water regularly for first 6-8 weeks. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch. Avoid fertilizer first season. Support if needed in windy locations.
Spring Growth
6-10 weeksLeafy shoots emerge; plant develops branching structure and foliage fills in
Prune suckers and lower branches for canopy height if desired. Fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer. Continue regular watering during dry periods.
Flowering
12-16 weeks (July-October in most zones)Terminal panicles of ruffled pink flowers appear at branch tips; blooms proliferate mid-summer through fall
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water during dry spells. Apply 1 tablespoon balanced fertilizer per plant every 4-6 weeks if desired.
Fall Color & Dormancy
8-12 weeksFoliage turns brilliant orange-red; bark exfoliates revealing cinnamon-colored trunk; plant prepares for winter rest
Stop fertilizing. Reduce watering. Do not prune heavily in fall. Enjoy ornamental bark display throughout winter.
Winter Dormancy
12-16 weeksDeciduous foliage drops completely; exfoliating bark becomes prominent garden feature
Minimal watering needed. Prune in late winter (February-March) before growth resumes; remove crossing branches and weak growth. Avoid cutting into old wood.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Hand-pick in early morning; use pheromone traps if severe; neem oil spray on foliage
-
Ensure adequate air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; spray with sulfur or horticultural oil if needed; resistant cultivars like 'Pink Velour' rarely affected
-
Prune and remove infested branches; horticultural oil spray in winter dormancy; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
-
Spray with water to dislodge; neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity
-
Spray with strong water stream; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
Uses
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftPink Velour panicles make excellent long-lasting fresh cut flowers for summer bouquets and arrangements. Branches with exfoliating bark are also prized for winter dried arrangements and floral design. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant pink flowers attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds throughout the blooming season, making it valuable for pollinator gardens and wildlife landscapes. [source]
Ornamental Bark Display
HouseholdThe exfoliating bark reveals smooth cinnamon-colored wood underneath, creating year-round visual interest and winter garden appeal without foliage. [source]
Landscape Focal Point
HouseholdPink Velour's compact habit, vibrant summer blooms, and multi-season interest make it ideal as a specimen plant, accent in mixed borders, or featured element in contemporary landscapes. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalIn traditional Asian medicine, Lagerstroemia species have been used to prepare decoctions for various purposes, though modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not applicable for ornamental shrub. Enjoy flowers throughout summer and fall. Cut stems for fresh arrangements in summer. Admire exfoliating bark through winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crape Myrtles are native to Southeast Asia and were named 'crape' by early European traders who thought the ruffled flowers resembled crepe fabric.
- 🌱 'Pink Velour' is a modern disease-resistant cultivar bred specifically to resist powdery mildew, a common problem on older varieties in humid regions.
- 🌱 The exfoliating bark reveals a smooth, satin-like trunk that becomes more prominent and beautiful as the plant matures—some specimens develop dramatic multi-colored patterns of gray, cinnamon, and cream.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Crape Myrtle 'Pink Velour' timeline →