Crape Myrtle trees in Southern Washington State?

Question

Hi purchased a few Crape Myrtle trees because they are absolutely beautiful. However, I didn't do a lot of investigating before I purchased them and now I am concerned that they may not survive our winters. I live in Southern Washington. It doesn't get extremely cold here, not like on the East Coast, but definitely not hot like many of the websites are suggesting that Crape Myrtles like. Does anyone have any experience with these? Will they survive here where I live?

Answer 1

I actually have or had a crape myrtle in my front yard.  In a bad storm last week, I lost a major part of the tree due to the water collecting in the flowers.  Now I need a new tree, and I don't think I will be getting another of these.  They are beautiful, but I guess not strong enough to with stand the storms around here.

Answer 2

I am assuming that you mean Lagerstroemia Indica.

There are a lot of different areas in Southern Washington,Are you East or West? Are you at sea level or at a higher elevation? I looked in the Sunset Western Gardening Book which has different zones from the USDA zones, just to keep us confused and I think that Crape Myrtle is not too dependable in much of Washington. It is hardy in some zones, but doesnt flower much. Those were probably brought to blooming in some hot Southern California nursery then sold to you while in full bloom. Better take some pictures while they look marvelous.

Answer 3

http://www.clemson.edu/crepemyrtle/

also check the OSU Hort. online site