Lagerstroemia indica Pixie White - Crape Myrtle

Invite Lagerstroemia indica 'Pixie White', also known as the Indian Lilac or Summer Lilac, to your terrace or garden! This adorable shrub charms with its dense habit, ideal dimensions for small spaces and container gardening, but most importantly, its breathtaking pure white summer flowering. The small size of this bush doesn't prevent it from blooming from early July, in the form of impressive clusters of snowy white flowers. Summer Lilacs are also appreciated for their smooth, richly coloured bark that remains ornamental all year round, as well as their beautiful autumn colours. These bushes love warmth but appreciate some coolness in summer to support their flowering.

The Indian Lilac 'Pixie White' belongs to the Lythraceae family. It is not originally from India as its name suggests, but from China and Japan. This slow-growing variety will not exceed 1.50m (4ft 11in) in all directions. The bush, very bushy, has a rounded silhouette and its branches are slightly arched. In spring, its coriaceous, ovate, dark green leaves measuring 8cm (3.1in) long appear. They turn bronze in autumn before falling. In July, the plant transforms with multiple pyramid-shaped inflorescences called thyrses, composed of delicate white flowers as thin as crepe paper. In winter, it reveals a smooth bark marbled in mouse grey, cinnamon, and light pink that peels off in flakes.

We have imagined a simple tricolour plant tapestry as a ground cover to enhance the Summer Lilac 'Pixie White'. A weaving of thyme, oregano, and silver baskets will dress the base of its trunk, accentuate its bark, and reflect its immaculate flowering. We recommend planting this shrub in spring, when there is no longer any risk of frost, in a sunny and sheltered location, in rich, moist, well-drained soil, preferably non-calcareous. It will appreciate a compost addition and a thick layer of dead leaves, especially during the first two winters in cold regions.

NB: Karl Von Linne named this tree in honour of his friend Magnus Von Lagestroem (1696 - 1759), who had sent it to him from India for identification. Originally, this tree was used to decorate Chinese temples. We would like to point out that this tree produces fruits that have a narcotic effect if ingested.