Barista Dark Roast Crape Myrtle

Barista Dark Roast Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica Barista 'Dark Roast')

Barista Dark Roast Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica Barista 'Dark Roast') is a compact, heat loving shrub prized for its deep wine toned foliage and richly colored summer bloom. Dense branching, excellent mildew resistance, and a long flowering window make this small crape myrtle a high impact, low maintenance choice for modern landscapes, containers, and streetside plantings.

Distinctive Features

New growth emerges dark burgundy to chocolate and holds color through heat, setting off heavy clusters of saturated red to ruby flowers from midsummer into fall. The plant forms a naturally rounded mound with fine textured leaves, attractive tan bark that develops subtle exfoliation with age, and seed heads that add late season interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for strongest color and bloom.
• Soil: Well drained loam or sandy soil; slightly acidic to neutral.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment, then drought tolerant.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7 to 9 (may be root hardy into 6 with protection).
• Mature Size: Typically 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, depending on climate and care.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dark foliage and vivid bloom deliver bold contrast in small spaces.
• Containers: Compact habit suits patio pots and entry planters.
• Foundation and Borders: Adds long season color along walks and beds.
• Mass Plantings: Repeated in drifts for a low hedge of summer color.
• Pollinator Gardens: Nectar rich panicles attract bees and butterflies.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Minimal; shape in late winter before new growth. Remove suckers or crossing wood as needed.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in spring; avoid excess nitrogen to prevent floppy growth.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches of mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Pest and Disease: Bred for powdery mildew resistance; ensure sun and airflow for best performance.
• Watering: Deep, infrequent irrigation once established encourages drought tolerance.

Why Choose Barista Dark Roast?

• Striking Foliage: Dark leaves provide season long contrast.
• Extended Bloom: Flowers for weeks from mid to late season.
• Compact Size: Landscape ready color without the bulk of larger crape myrtles.
• Heat and Drought Tough: Thrives in hot, sunny sites with modest care.
• Low Maintenance: Clean habit, disease resistance, and minimal pruning needs.

Lagerstroemia indica Barista 'Dark Roast' delivers rich foliage, vivid bloom, and compact versatility, making it an easy, high style solution for bright, water wise landscapes and patio planters.