Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle Pollination Info

• Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is a self-pollinating plant, meaning it has both male and female reproductive parts and can pollinate itself without the need for external pollinators.
• However, cross-pollination can sometimes result in improved growth and bloom characteristics in crape myrtles, so if you have multiple crape myrtles in your garden, it can be beneficial to encourage cross-pollination.
• The primary pollinators of crape myrtles are bees and butterflies. Providing a diverse array of flowering plants in your garden can attract and support a wide range of pollinators.
• To ensure the health and vitality of your crape myrtle, it is important to avoid over-spraying pesticides that can harm pollinators.

Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia Black Diamond 'Mystic Magenta') FAQ

What is the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle?

The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is a shrub or small tree known for its showy magenta flowers and dark purple-black foliage. It's a cultivar of Lagerstroemia (Crape Myrtle) and was developed as part of the Black Diamond series of crape myrtles.

What are the growing requirements for the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle?

The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam. It's also heat-tolerant and drought-resistant once established.

How tall and wide does the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle grow?

The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle typically reaches a height of 10-12 feet and a spread of 8-10 feet. However, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size if needed.

When does the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle flower?

The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle blooms in mid to late summer, typically July to August. The magenta flowers last for several weeks and are followed by black seed capsules.

How do I care for the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle?

The Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is relatively low-maintenance. It does not require regular pruning but can be shaped if desired. It's important to water regularly during the first growing season to help establish the plant. Once established, it's drought-resistant. It's also a good idea to mulch around the base of the plant to preserve moisture in the soil.

Can the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle be grown in a container?

Yes, the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle can be grown in a container. It's best to use a large container with good drainage and to water regularly to prevent the soil from drying out. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Is the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle deer-resistant?

No, the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is not deer-resistant.

Does the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle attract pollinators?

Yes, the Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Planting & Care for Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle

Planting:

1. Choose a planting site that receives full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) and has well-draining soil.
2. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant.
3. Remove the plant from its container and gently loosen any tangled or circling roots.
4. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
5. Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp down to remove any air pockets.
6. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
7. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care:

• Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system.
• After the plant is established, it will only need to be watered during dry spells.
• Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering shrubs.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant.
• Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtles are disease-resistant, but regular inspections should be made for any signs of pests or disease.
• Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will encourage more blooms throughout the summer.
• In colder climates, consider mulching the base of the plant with a thick layer of compost to protect it from winter damage.

By following these planting and care instructions, your Black Diamond Mystic Magenta Crape Myrtle should thrive and produce beautiful blooms throughout the summer.