Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

$250.00

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Size: 40cm/45L

40cm/45L

Current Stock Height Guides

40cm/45L: 1.2m - 1.5m Approx

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you mustconfirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 4m to 6m

Mature Width: 3m to 4m

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is expected to grow 40cm to 70cm per year (moderate).

Root Ball Dimensions

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

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About Your New Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica 'Red Magic' is the red flowering Crepe Myrtle, a deciduous tree with a compact upright habit and a rounded head. Deep red flower clusters open across summer above fresh green leaves, and the smooth pale bark and autumn tints keep the plant interesting long after flowering has finished.

Plant it in full sun in soil that drains. Moderate growth of 40 to 70 centimetres a year takes it to around 3 to 4 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide. It suits temperate and warm temperate districts, takes light to moderate frost once established, and copes with heat and dry weather.

The compact size earns it a place under power lines, in narrow front gardens and in streetscape planting where a larger tree would crowd the footpath. Repeat it down a driveway for rhythm, or use one plant as a courtyard specimen. Very little pruning is needed to keep the shape tidy.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Red Crepe Myrtle 'Red Magic'

What is Lagerstroemia indica 'Red Magic'?

'Red Magic' is a red flowering Crepe Myrtle selected for its compact upright habit and rounded canopy. It is deciduous, flowering across summer with dense clusters of deep red blooms, then colouring before leaf fall. The smaller final size separates it from older Crepe Myrtles that can reach well over 6 metres.

How big does 'Red Magic' grow?

Expect around 3 to 4 metres in height and 2 to 3 metres across at maturity, with a naturally rounded head that needs little shaping. This size suits residential front gardens, narrow verges and positions under overhead wires. Container grown plants and regularly pruned specimens sit comfortably at the lower end of that range.

When does it flower?

Flowering is concentrated in summer, roughly December through February, when the plant carries dense clusters of deep red blooms across the whole canopy. Hot weather brings the display on strongly. Removing spent flower heads as they fade can encourage a lighter second flush before the weather cools and the leaves start to turn.

Is it frost tolerant?

Once established it tolerates light to moderate frost, which covers most temperate and warm temperate districts. It is bare through winter, so frost falls on dormant wood rather than soft new growth. In colder inland areas, protect first year plants over their first winter and delay pruning until the worst frosts have passed.

How fast does it grow?

Growth is moderate at roughly 40 to 70 centimetres a year, faster in warm districts with good soil moisture and slower in cool or exposed positions. Most plants reach useful size within four to five seasons. Consistent watering through the first two summers makes a bigger difference to growth rate than feeding does.

Is it suitable for streetscape planting?

Yes. The compact rounded form, moderate height and non aggressive root system make it a common specification for verges, median strips and residential streets, particularly where overhead wires limit tree height. Summer flowering happens when streets are most used, and the deciduous habit lets winter sun through to footpaths and windows.

How do I care for 'Red Magic'?

Keep water up during the first two summers, then water only in long dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter, thinning crowded branches and tipping the previous season's growth rather than cutting hard into old wood. Feed with a complete fertiliser in early spring and keep a mulch layer over the root zone.

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

Enriched Planting Mix is a certified organic blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent, bagged in 30L. It is built to be dug through existing garden soil at planting time rather than used on its own, and the gypsum is what sets it apart from a plain compost.

Gypsum helps break up heavy clay so water and roots can move through it, while the compost and manure return organic matter and nutrient to tired ground. The coarse bark holds structure and keeps air around the root zone, and the wetting agent keeps moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering.

Use it when planting trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and exotic garden plants, particularly into clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and 7 centimetres deeper, then mix roughly one third planting mix through the excavated soil. Spread 7 centimetres of that improved soil in the base before setting the plant in.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Enriched Planting Mix

What is Enriched Planting Mix made from?

It is a blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent. Each part has a job. The compost and manure supply organic matter and nutrient, the gypsum works on clay structure, the bark keeps air around the roots and the wetting agent holds moisture in the soil.

What plants is it suitable for?

It suits exotic garden plants, including roses, ornamental and deciduous trees, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials, and it earns its keep most on heavy clay sites. It is a planting mix rather than a potting mix, so its job is improving soil at planting time. Phosphorus sensitive natives are the one clear exception.

Is it safe for natives?

No, not for the phosphorus sensitive ones. The composted animal manure in this blend lifts phosphorus well above what Proteaceae such as Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea and Protea will tolerate, and the result can be leaf burn, dieback and plant death. Use the Native Potting Mix for those species, or plant them into unimproved local soil.

Is it certified organic?

Yes. It is a certified organic product with no chemical additives, which is why the manure and compost in it are fully composted rather than raw. That makes it sound around fruit trees and vegetable beds, and it means you are adding genuine organic matter to your soil rather than a synthetic conditioner.

How much do I need?

Work on roughly one third planting mix to two thirds of the soil you dug out of the hole. For a shrub out of a 200 millimetre pot that is only a few litres. An advanced tree going into a large hole will take considerably more. Judge the quantity by the volume of the hole rather than the size of the plant.

Can I use it in pots?

It is not a potting mix and should not be used on its own in a container. The blend is designed to be diluted through garden soil, and used straight in a pot it holds too much water and settles badly. For containers, reach for a premium potting mix, or the native mix if you are potting natives.

Does it need to be watered in?

Yes. Water the plant well several hours before you plant it, then water thoroughly again once the hole is backfilled and the soil firmed down. That first deep watering settles the improved soil around the root ball and drives out air pockets. Keep the water up over the first few months while the roots establish.

View full details

Type: Garden Supplies

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

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Uses in my Garden

Feature Tree
Street Tree
Avenue Planting
Council or Civic Landscapes
Driveway Border

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle works in an:

Formal Garden – structured, symmetrical design with clipped shapes.
Contemporary / Architectural Garden – striking forms for bold design statements.
Cottage Garden – romantic mix of flowers, colour, and texture.

Is Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle Evergreen or Deciduous?

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is an Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months) Tree

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 4m to 6m

Mature Width: 3m to 4m

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is expected to grow 40cm to 70cm per year (moderate).

Growth Rate of Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is expected to grow 40cm to 70cm per year (moderate).

They are considered to have a:

Medium Growth Rate

Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Is Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle frost tolerant?

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.

Does Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle Flower?

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ produces masses of rich red, crinkled flowers through summer. The blooms form in large clusters at the ends of branches, creating a bold and long-lasting display that stands out strongly against its green foliage.

Does Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle flower?

Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

Summer

Flower Type:

Clustered

Flower Colour:

Red

Is Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle an Australian Native Tree?

No

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is Native to China and Southeast Asia, where Lagerstroemia indica grows naturally in warm temperate and subtropical regions.

What is the Wildlife Value of Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle ?

Its vibrant summer flowers attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, providing a valuable nectar source during warmer months. The tree also supports garden biodiversity by encouraging pollinator activity and contributing to a healthy seasonal ecosystem.

How much Sunlight does Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle need?

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle will thrive best in:

Full Sun

Preferred Soil?

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It will also tolerate lighter sandy soils if enriched with organic matter to improve moisture retention and fertility. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions unless significantly improved, as poor drainage can reduce flowering performance and overall vigour. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then gradually reduce watering as the tree matures.

Is Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle Drought Tolerant?

Is Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle Drought tolerant?

As a young tree it benefits from regular watering to establish well, particularly during warmer weather. Once established, ‘Red Magic’ shows good drought tolerance and performs reliably through dry periods when planted in well-drained soil, with occasional supplementary watering supporting consistent flowering and foliage health.

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How To Plant Your Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Site: Choose a well-drained position in full sun to part shade with room for the canopy to develop.

Soil preparation: Enrich the planting area with quality compost and aged manure for a strong establishment phase.

Hole: Dig twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.

Planting: Position level with the surrounding soil, backfill gently, firm in, then water deeply to settle the roots.

Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Feature tree: 3 to 4 metres apart to allow the full canopy and form to develop.

Avenue planting: 3 metres apart for a uniform soft-textured avenue.

Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle is expected to grow 40cm to 70cm per year (moderate).

Medium Growth Rate

Long Term Care For Your Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle

Watering: Water deeply twice weekly through the first 12 months. Once established, reduce to once weekly in dry periods. Mulch helps maintain consistent moisture.

Mulching: Apply a 5 to 7 centimetre layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it 5 centimetres clear of the trunk.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Light tip prune in late winter to maintain shape if used as hedging or screening. For a clear trunk feature, remove lower branches as the tree grows.

Fertilising: Apply a slow-release general-purpose fertiliser in early spring and again in autumn for steady growth and consistent foliage colour.

Pest and disease: Hardy against most pests and diseases. Occasional scale or caterpillar inspection in warm humid conditions is all that's needed.

Planting Your Lagerstroemia indica ‘Red Magic’ – Red Crepe Myrtle in Different Soil

Lagerstroemia indica performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adaptable to a wide range of soils when drainage is improved with organic matter.

Sandy soil: Free-draining and ideal. Mulch well to maintain consistent moisture.

Clay soil: Improve drainage with gypsum and organic compost before planting.

Loam: The preferred soil for steady root development and consistent growth.

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral preferred. Mulch with composted leaf litter to maintain levels naturally.