Crepe Myrtles are the unofficial floral summertime beauty in Tyler, Texas. The trees bloom vibrantly through the blistering summer heat and well into the fall. They offer a display of lush flowers and stunning colors.
A SHOWSTOPPER IN THE CITY OF TYLER
Although crepe myrtles are not native to North America, they have become well established. Their arrival in the 1700’s was surely a welcome event, especially in the south. They thrive spectacularly in Tyler’s heat and humidity. You can sit under the crepe myrtle and it will “weep” moisture on you. This is an interesting thing that happens in the courtyard at Rosevine Inn.
BELOVED LOCALLY FOR MANY REASONS
The trees and bushes have long colorful blooms of flower clusters that appear in May and stay well into October. Some of the beautiful shades include pink, red, purple, white, and my favorite, lavender. Even the bark exhibits a tapestry of colors including gray, cinnamon and brown tones. The fall foliage brings a shift to worm oranges, reds and yellows before the leaves drop.
CREPE MYRTLE ABOUT TOWN
It really does not matter where you go in the city, you will see a crepe myrtle blooming. Come visit, staying a day or two at the Rosevine Inn, and drive around to experience these lovely trees! While you are here there are other sites to visit. The Tyler Rose Garden is a great outing in the mornings and Lake Tyler is great place for respite.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT VARIETY
If we have sparked your interest in and you want to acquire and grow your own-here is a little information for inquiring minds! THREE VARIETIES
DWARF (3-6 FT) ideal for borders or small spaces. INTERMEDIATE (6-12 FT) perfect for yards with a medium scale. LARGE (20-30+FT) used along driveways, entrances or on the street
MORE ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR GROWING
Full sun is necessary -more sun equals more blooms. Light pruning in late winter to shape the plant and to clear crossing branches. Avoid “crepe murder” although a lot of this is seen in our “little” town! LOL Water deeply but infrequently. Best to establish soil moisture your first two summers, then drought tolerance will kick in. Sometimes plants will develop powdery mildew or aphid problems. Pick off dead wood to try to avoid this.
Crepe and Crape are used interchangeably. The crape myrtles are a welcome sight to bees and butterflies! Even birds find pollen and shelter in the blossoms and branches. The summer vibrancy carries well in the autumn months , developing in shades of fall before displacing bare branch silhouettes.
COME TO TYLER AND ENJOY
Now that your interest is sparked about these beautiful plants, we invite you to come and enjoy a day or two in our beautiful East Texas area, staying with us at The Rosevine Inn Bed and Breakfast and Extended Stay Lodging. We will treat you to an experience you will want to repeat time and again. From our comfortable surroundings to the delicious and relaxing breakfasts, Rosevine in is a delight in many ways! See you soon.