Lagerstroemia indica ‘Purple Velvet’ Seeds — Midnight Velvet Blossoms in Compact Glory
Plant a whisper of mystique wrapped in velvet. 'Purple Velvet' Crape Myrtle emerges as a stunningly rich, dwarf spectacle—crimson-dark purple blooms that seem bathed in moonlight, cloaking your garden in drama without overwhelming size.
Bloom Color & Garden Drama
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Flower Hues: Imagine clusters of ultra-dark purple, nearly-black blossoms—each delicate crimped petal forming bold, velvet-like panicles that glow against the foliage like a crown of night jewels.
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Bloom Time: Generously gifted with recurrent summer blooms, this cultivar keeps its purple drama flowing through warm months.
Hardiness & Growth Habit
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USDA Hardiness: Thrives across Zones 6–10, making it versatile enough for temperate to warm climates.
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Size & Form: A petite powerhouse—matures into a 4–5 ft tall and wide upright shrub, perfect for containers, front borders, or cottage-style groupings.
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Bark & Fall Beauty: Beyond blooms, its mottled bark adds winter interest while foliage shifts to autumnal hues, keeping seasonal story alive.
Wildlife Attraction & Garden Buzz
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Pollinator Appeal: A magnet for honeybees, bumblebees, pollinating wasps, and even skippers—profiting from its vivid blooms and succulent pollen throughout summer.
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Songbird Habitat: Offering summer shelter and perching spots, this shrub supports local birds—wrens and songbirds often nest among its branching framework.
Cultural Significance & Botanical Elegance
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Heritage & Symbolism: Originating in China, common crepe myrtles carry the poetic legends of resilience and summer vibrancy—‘Purple Velvet’ transforming that lore into compact couture.
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Low-Maintenance Diva: Drought-tolerant once established, prefers full sun and well-drained soil. A careful pruning in spring keeps blooms abundant—and avoids the dreaded "crape murder."
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Gardening Icon: Known as the “Lilac of the South,” its popularity spans municipalities, streetscapes, and heritage gardens for its color, toughness, and ornamental grace.