Vibrant summer color of Crepe Myrtle Trees
In the last 10 years I have created around 2500 portraits of homes and historic buildings in all 50 states. And the one summer element that never fails to disappoint, due to its wonderful color, are Crepe Myrtles. No matter where in the country I find myself, I have to say that there are always Crepe Mrytles to welcome me.
This lovely home in Savannah, Georgia, is a classic example. It sits right by the water and is actually the first home of a very nice newly wed couple. The wife is giving it as a surprise Valentine’s gift to her husband! I chose this home to be part of my Savannah series as I feel it is a tastefully designed new built home that has it own unique charm and it also fits with the community. It is also surrounded by lush green mature trees. There is nothing worse than huge new homes that look like the mother ship just landed.
I include some of my other house portraits with Crepe Mrytles below for your enjoyment.
I decided to find out more about Crepe Myrtles and where they came from originally as I realized I didn’t have a clue.
Here is some info from Southern Living magazine that I think you will find interesting.
“The vaunted crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) arrived in England from its native China in 1759. It impressed very few people, though, because it refused to bloom. England just wasn’t hot enough. However, the American South was. So when plant explorer and botanist to King Louis XVI André Michaux introduced this tree into Charleston around 1786, it celebrated like an innocent prisoner released from jail.
Audacious spikes of pink, purple, white, and red flowers crown its sculptural branches for months in summer. In fall, leaves turn a brilliant red or orange, and its peeling bark brings winter interest. Crepe myrtles are found in many shapes, sizes, and varieties, but their arching branches make them a mainstay for framing many a courtyard. The tree loves heat and humidity, tolerates drought, and grows quickly. Unlike the azalea, camellia, and gardenia, which pine for acid soil, crepe myrtle flourishes just about everywhere. No wonder it ranks as the South’s most popular (and coveted) ornamental tree.”
And here are some other house portraits that feature Crepe Mrytle blooms.
Hopefully this post will remind you that summer will be happening in a few months!
Leisa
