Crape Myrtle - Black Diamond® Red Hot

The Black Diamond® Red Hot Crape Myrtle is a stunning variety that features the first true dark-leafed crape myrtles. The blooms start off as a bright white before transitioning to a fiery red, offering a dramatic contrast to the deep hues of its dark foliage. The vibrant red flowers reach their peak productivity in the summer and fall, providing months of striking color. With an intermediate growth habit, the Red Hot Black Diamond reaches 10–12 feet tall and spreads 6–8 feet wide, making it ideal for specimen planting or mass plantings. Whether used for lining driveways or planted in a container on your deck or patio, this crape myrtle adds bold beauty wherever it's placed.

Unique Features:

• Bright Red Blooms: Start white, transitioning to fiery red, offering a vibrant contrast to dark leaves.
• Dark Foliage: Deep black foliage provides a dramatic backdrop to the vivid flowers.
• Intermediate Growth Habit: Reaches 10–12 feet tall with a spread of 6–8 feet, perfect for hedges or specimen plantings.
• Low-Maintenance: Drought-tolerant, mildew-resistant, and easy to care for once established.

Mature Size:

• Height: 10–12 feet
• Spread: 6–8 feet

USDA Hardiness Zones:

• Zones 7–9

Care Instructions:

• Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and vibrant blooms.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
• Water: Water regularly during dry periods, but once established, this tree is drought-tolerant.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and shape the tree.
• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote strong growth and flowering.
• Pests/Disease: Mildew-resistant and generally pest-free, though occasional aphids or scale may appear.
• Spacing: Space trees 6–8 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation.

The Black Diamond® Red Hot Crape Myrtle is a bold addition to any landscape, with its striking red blooms and dark foliage creating a stunning contrast. Its easy care and long-lasting beauty make it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add color and elegance to their outdoor space.

FAQ: What is the difference between the reds in the Black Diamond® Collection?

Red Hot™-We have found Red Hot™ to naturally prefer to take on more of an upright tree-form. The bloom color is the darkest red of the Black Diamond® collection.
Crimson Red™- We have found Crimson Red™ to naturally take on a shrubbier habit. The bloom color is the brightest red in the Black Diamond® crape myrtle collection.
Best Red™-We have found the growth habit and bloom color of Best Red™ to be right between Crimson Red™ and Red Hot™. Best Red™ is also one of the earliest bloomers of the collection.

MORE INFORMATION: Crape Myrtle Growing Guide