Why "Red" Doesn't Always Mean Red
Deep, dark red crape myrtles are my absolute favorite! If this is the color you're after for your Midlothian or Prosper landscape, you have to be very specific with what variety you want. A lot of times crape myrtles are not blooming when you purchase them in a container, so knowing the variety is crucial.
Common Red Crape Myrtle Mistakes
The reason I bring this up is because there are two common mistakes made with some very popular varieties of crape myrtle in North Texas landscapes:
Mistake #1: Country Red Crape Myrtle
You would think it's red since it has "red" in the name, but the reality is it's going to lean much more towards the pink side rather than red. While Country Red is a beautiful variety, it won't give you the deep crimson color many homeowners are looking for.
Mistake #2: Tuscarora Crape Myrtle
For whatever reason, Tuscarora crape myrtles are considered by many to be a "watermelon red" crape myrtle. Often times, if you go to a garden center or landscape supply store and ask for a red crape myrtle, Tuscarora is what you're going to get.
The problem is, as with the Country Red, they are simply not red—they're pink. Both the Country Red and the Tuscarora may have shades of red, but they are not going to give you a dark, deep, crimson red.
True Red Crape Myrtle Varieties
If a true dark red is what you're looking for, then there are two pretty common varieties that you should look for:
Red Dynamite Crape Myrtle
- Color: Deep, dark crimson red
- Mature height: 15-20 feet
- Best for: Medium-sized spaces and landscapes
- Growth habit: Upright, vase-shaped
- Perfect for: Midlothian and Prosper residential landscapes
Red Rocket Crape Myrtle
- Color: Deep, dark crimson red (same as Red Dynamite)
- Mature height: 25-30 feet
- Best for: Larger spaces, background plantings
- Growth habit: Tall, upright
- Perfect for: Statement trees and larger North Texas properties
The color of the two will be about the same—the only difference will be the mature size. Choose based on your available space and landscape design goals.
How to Ensure You Get True Red
When shopping for crape myrtles:
- Ask for varieties by name - Red Dynamite or Red Rocket
- Don't rely on color descriptions like "red" or "watermelon red"
- Verify the variety tag before purchasing
- Take a photo of blooming trees you like and show it at the nursery
- Buy from reputable nurseries that accurately label varieties
Caring for Your Red Crape Myrtles
Once you've planted the right variety, proper care ensures vibrant blooms:
- Plant in full sun (6+ hours daily)
- Provide well-draining soil
- Water deeply during establishment
- Fertilize in spring for best blooms
- Prune correctly (no crape murder!)
Professional Landscape Services
At Vista Lawn and Pest, we provide comprehensive landscape maintenance in Midlothian and Prosper, including fertilization programs that keep your crape myrtles and other ornamental plants healthy and vibrant. Our lawn care and weed control services ensure your entire property looks its best year-round.
If true dark, deep, crimson red is what you want, you won't go wrong with either Red Dynamite or Red Rocket!
Watch the video below to see the color difference between pink and true red crape myrtle varieties and learn how to select the perfect tree for your landscape.
For professional landscape care and lawn maintenance in Midlothian and Prosper, contact Vista Lawn and Pest.
