Colorama Scarlet Crape Myrtle

Colorama Scarlet Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia 'JM1')

Colorama Scarlet Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia 'JM1') is a bold, fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree celebrated for its vibrant scarlet-red flowers and lush burgundy foliage. Offering months of color from midsummer through fall, this striking variety adds drama and structure to the landscape while remaining low maintenance and heat tolerant. Its upright, multi-stemmed habit makes it ideal for both formal and naturalistic plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Colorama Scarlet' stands out with intense red blooms that appear in large, showy panicles atop rich wine-colored foliage. The flowers continue to bloom well into autumn, providing long-lasting color. In addition to its floral display, the dark foliage offers contrast and interest even when not in bloom. This selection typically matures at 10 to 12 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide, forming a vase-shaped canopy perfect for landscape accents or street plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil; adaptable to a range of soil types
• Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Scarlet blooms and dark foliage create a dramatic garden centerpiece
• Specimen Planting: Excellent as a standalone feature in lawn or bed
• Foundation Planting: Adds height and color near buildings or fences
• Mixed Borders: Provides vertical interest and seasonal color
• Street or Driveway Trees: Narrow form and showy presence suit urban and suburban settings

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; tolerates dry conditions once mature
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape and encourage vigorous blooming
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth begins
• Mulching: Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Pest Resistance: Resistant to mildew and drought stress

Why Choose Colorama Scarlet Crape Myrtle?

• Vivid Red Flowers: Eye-catching scarlet blooms span summer through fall
• Deep Burgundy Foliage: Adds season-long color contrast and elegance
• Heat and Drought Tolerant: Thrives in warm, sunny climates with minimal care
• Compact Tree Form: Perfect for smaller spaces and narrow plantings
• Focal Point: Showy flowers and bold foliage make it an instant visual anchor

Lagerstroemia 'JM1' brings together intense floral color, dramatic foliage, and easy-care performance�making Colorama Scarlet Crape Myrtle a standout addition to sunny landscapes that need long-lasting summer impact and bold visual structure.