The Dynamite Crape Myrtle, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia indica ‘Dynamite’, is not native in the traditional sense but is a cultivar derived from Lagerstroemia indica, which originates from Southeast Asia, specifically from regions including China, Japan, Korea, and India. As a cultivated variety, ‘Dynamite’ has been developed for ornamental use in gardens and landscapes worldwide, particularly in climates similar to its parent species, thriving in the warmer parts of the United States and similar zones.
‘Dynamite’ was created by Dr. Carl Whitcomb, a noted horticulturist, in the late 20th century as part of efforts to breed crape myrtles with enhanced qualities like flower color, disease resistance, and cold hardiness. This cultivar was among his first successes, known for its true red flowers that do not fade to pink as they age, a common issue with other red crape myrtles.
The name “Dynamite” reflects the explosive, vibrant red of its blooms, which set it apart in the landscape. Since its introduction, ‘Dynamite’ has become a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers looking to add dramatic color to their designs. It has helped to redefine the expectations for crape myrtles in terms of both aesthetics and performance.
Characteristics
- Appearance: Dynamite Crape Myrtle is celebrated for its bright, true red flowers that bloom in large, showy clusters from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers are not only vivid but also long-lasting, providing color for months. The tree has an upright, vase-shaped habit when young, becoming more rounded with maturity.
- Size: It grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet with a spread of 10 to 15 feet, making it suitable as both a small tree or a large shrub, depending on pruning practices.
- Foliage: The leaves emerge with a reddish tint in spring, turning dark green as summer progresses. In autumn, they can turn shades of orange, red, and yellow, adding to the tree’s seasonal appeal. Like all crape myrtles, it’s deciduous, with leaves dropping in winter.
- Bark: The bark exfoliates to reveal a smooth, tan or cinnamon-colored bark beneath, offering winter interest and texture to landscapes.
- Growth Rate: With a moderate growth rate, ‘Dynamite’ allows for manageable growth, fitting well into both new and established landscapes.
- Lifespan: With proper care, crape myrtles like ‘Dynamite’ can live for decades, often becoming long-lived features in gardens due to their resilience and disease resistance.
- Reproduction: While it produces seeds, ‘Dynamite’ is typically propagated through cuttings or grafting to ensure the retention of its vibrant red flowers.
- Disease Resistance: One of ‘Dynamite’s’ key features is its resistance to powdery mildew, which plagues many crape myrtle varieties. This resistance makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners wanting color without the hassle of disease management.
USDA Zones:
Dynamite Crape Myrtle is well-suited to USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9. In Zone 6, where winters can be colder, young trees might benefit from some protective measures like mulching to help them through the frostiest periods. From Zones 7 to 9, ‘Dynamite’ thrives, taking advantage of the warmer temperatures for extended blooming and growth without much concern for cold damage.
Cultivation
- Site Selection: ‘Dynamite’ crape myrtle requires full sun to produce its best flower display, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It prefers well-drained soil, adaptable to a variety of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged. Consider the tree’s mature size when selecting a planting site to avoid future crowding or root issues.
- Soil and Planting: The tree does best in slightly acidic to neutral soils. When planting, ensure the root ball is at or slightly above ground level to prevent water accumulation around the trunk. Amending the soil with organic matter can benefit the tree, especially in less fertile or sandy soils.
- Watering: Regular watering is crucial for young trees to establish a robust root system. Once mature, ‘Dynamite’ is somewhat drought-resistant but will still benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry spells to support blooming and overall health.
- Maintenance: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This helps in shaping the tree, removing dead or damaged branches, and promoting a better bloom. Avoid excessive pruning, which can lead to fewer flowers and a less natural form.
- Growth Rate: With a moderate growth rate, ‘Dynamite’ can be managed for size or allowed to grow into a larger specimen tree, offering flexibility in landscape design.
- Pest and Disease: While resistant to powdery mildew, watch for common pests like aphids or scale insects. Good air circulation and not overwatering can prevent most issues.
Landscape Uses
- Specimen Plant: The vibrant red flowers of ‘Dynamite’ make it an eye-catching focal point in any garden or landscape, where its color can be celebrated throughout the summer season.
- Street and Urban Trees: Its size and form make it suitable for streetscapes or in urban landscapes where space allows, providing both aesthetic appeal and shade without overly aggressive root systems.
- Hedges or Screens: When planted in groups, ‘Dynamite’ can create a colorful, dense screen or hedge, offering privacy and visual interest, especially during its bloom period.
- Patio or Garden Accents: Smaller specimens or those pruned for size can be used near patios, decks, or in garden beds where their blooms can be enjoyed up close.
- Seasonal Interest: This tree provides year-round interest with summer blooms, autumn foliage color, and the exfoliating bark in winter, making it a multi-seasonal asset in landscape design.
- Pollinator Gardens: The flowers attract butterflies and bees, enhancing biodiversity and supporting local pollinators, which is vital for ecological health.
- Container Gardening: While less common, ‘Dynamite’ can be grown in large containers for those with limited space, though this requires more frequent watering and possibly more intensive care.