The great crape myrtle controversies

Crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are one of the most controversial and often-discussed ornamental plants among gardeners, landscapers, conservationists, naturalists, growers, researchers and educators. How did the crape myrtle become such a hot topic for discussion? First things first — is it crepe or is it crape? Check any number of references and you are likely to find it spelled either way…