Crape Myrtle

About this plant

The 'Thunderstruck White Lightning' Crape Myrtle is a magnificent ornamental tree celebrated for its prolific and brilliant white flowers that blanket the plant from early summer well into the fall. Its striking dark foliage provides a dramatic contrast, making the pristine white blooms pop in any landscape. Beyond its stunning floral show, this Crape Myrtle offers an attractive, upright growth habit, forming a beautiful specimen that adds year-round interest. As temperatures drop, its leaves transform into rich purples and reds, providing a final burst of color before the exfoliating bark reveals a smooth, appealing texture. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance as a focal point, a vibrant hedge, or a striking addition to mixed borders, 'Thunderstruck White Lightning' is a high-impact tree that demands attention and delivers sustained beauty.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires minimal maintenance once established. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and promote robust blooming. Remove spent flowers for prolonged bloom duration, though it is not strictly necessary. Fertilize in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for flowering trees. Ensure good air circulation to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.