Description: Lagerstroemia 'PILAG-IV' Midnight Magic, commonly known as Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle, is a deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its stunning dark foliage and contrasting vibrant blooms. It is part of a series known for its exceptional foliage color and overall ornamental appeal.

Foliage:

• Leaves: The foliage is a rich, dark purple to almost black, providing a striking backdrop to the vibrant flowers. The leaves are elliptical and arranged alternately along the stems.
• New Growth: Young leaves emerge with a reddish tint, gradually maturing to deep purple.
• Autumn Color: In autumn, the foliage may turn shades of orange or red before dropping, adding seasonal interest.

Flowers:

• Inflorescence: Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle produces large panicles of crinkled flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white, depending on the specific cultivar. The flowers are abundant and showy, contrasting beautifully with the dark foliage.
• Blooming Period: Blooms from mid-summer to early autumn, providing a long-lasting display of color in the garden.

Form:

• Size: Typically grows to a height of 2-4 meters with a spread of 2-3 meters, forming an upright to rounded shape.
• Habit: Multi-stemmed with a compact, dense crown that becomes more rounded with age.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates, making it suitable for various regions, including parts of Australia. It prefers areas with hot summers to promote abundant flowering and foliage color.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal foliage coloration, flowering, and overall growth. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment period is crucial. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells.

Planting and Care:

• Planting: Best planted in spring or autumn. Ensure the planting hole is prepared to accommodate the root ball comfortably. Amend heavy soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to shape the plant. Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle blooms on new wood, so pruning encourages vigorous growth and flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent lush foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Pests and Diseases: Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle is generally resistant to most pests and diseases but can occasionally be affected by:

• Powdery Mildew: Fungal disease that may affect foliage, especially in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize this issue.
• Aphids: Small insects that may feed on new growth. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.

Landscape Uses:

• Specimen Plant: Ideal as a focal point in the garden due to its dark foliage and vibrant flowers.
• Hedging: Can be used as a small hedge or screen in gardens.
• Street Tree: Suitable for urban landscapes and street planting where space permits.
• Container Planting: Can be grown in large containers on patios or in courtyards to provide seasonal color and interest.

Notes:

• Winter Hardiness: Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle is generally hardy but may benefit from protection in colder regions during harsh winters.
• Maintenance: Low maintenance once established. Regular watering and occasional fertilizing promote healthy growth and flowering.

Companion Plants: Pair with plants that complement its foliage color and flowering season for a harmonious landscape design.

Lagerstroemia 'PILAG-IV' Midnight Magic (Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle)

Common Name: Midnight Magic Crepe Myrtle

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia 'PILAG-IV' Midnight Magic

Family: Lythraceae

Origin: Cultivar developed for enhanced foliage color and ornamental value

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