Lagerstroemia Center Stage™ Red

A Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Flowering Shrubs variety, Lagerstroemia Center Stage™ Red

Lagerstroemia Center Stage™ Red is a dwarf crape myrtle that delivers vivid, cherry-red flower clusters set against dark burgundy-black foliage from midsummer through early fall. This variety was bred specifically for compact habit, mildew resistance, and high flower production, offering consistent performance even in hot, humid climates where other crape myrtles may struggle. As a member of the Lagerstroemia indica species, Center Stage™ Red thrives in urban and suburban landscapes, lending vibrant color and upright structure to beds and borders.

Reaching a mature height of 6 to 12 feet and spreading 8 feet wide, its naturally columnar habit requires little to no pruning. It blooms on new wood, so any shaping is best done in early spring. The glossy, deep-toned foliage emerges in spring and retains its rich color throughout the growing season, providing visual contrast that enhances neighboring plantings. The brightly colored flower panicles attract pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, while its tidy growth makes it well suited to both formal and naturalistic garden styles.

Center Stage™ Red performs best in full sun and well-drained soil with moderate fertility and a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Once established, it offers moderate drought tolerance and minimal maintenance. This variety is ideal for use in mass plantings, along walkways, or as a vertical accent in containers. Its resistance to powdery mildew, a common concern in crape myrtles, adds to its reliability and makes it a smart, long-term addition to the summer garden.

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