How to Propagate Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica
| Methods | Stem cutting (hardwood), division (suckers) |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Best season | Summer or winter dormant |
| Time to root | 4–8 weeks |
| Group | Outdoor / garden |
Crape myrtle roots readily by two different methods depending on season. Softwood cuttings in summer or dormant hardwood cuttings in winter both work well — pick whichever fits your schedule.
Stem cutting (softwood, summer)
Take a 4-inch softwood cutting, insert into moist, well-draining mix, keep humid.
Stem cutting (hardwood, winter)
Take dormant hardwood sections, insert two-thirds into loose soil outdoors, let root over winter.
Division (suckers)
Established plants often send up root suckers that can be dug and transplanted directly.
When to propagate
Summer for softwood, or winter dormancy for hardwood and suckers.
Common problems
Softwood cutting wilted. Low humidity — use a plastic cover.
Questions people ask
Will the new plant flower the same color? Yes — cuttings and suckers are genetically identical to the parent.
Related
Soil & cutting methods hub · Similar plants: Rose of Sharon, Hydrangea