Hybridized at The US National Arboretum in 1964 by crossing L. fauriei with L. indica 'Pink Lace' in an attempt to develop a variety resistant to powdery mildew. The result was L. "Natchez," which is called the queen of crepe myrtles. It was officially named & released in 1978.
Muskogee has proved to be a fast-growing and tough tree in my zone 6b windy hilltop garden. Newly planted in fall, 2014, Muskogee survived the unusually cold 2014-2015 winter with ease, in contrast to crape myrtle cultivars Hopi, which died, and Velour, which is usually a winter survivor here but which died to the ground that winter. Muskogee is a very pretty tree, with its lovely light pink/purple flowers. I have five Muskogee crape myrtles, and all are doing very well.
I have high accolades for the Tuscarora Crape Myrtle.
The foliage has the blackest leaves I've ever seen on a plant, and the blooms on this one are red like Dynamite or Red Rocket.
I can't say enough good about this plant. It is spectacular here in my area of Middle TN. A reliable performer and easy-care.
Bought this plant as a twig 3 years ago. Grew quickly and beautifully in zone 6a and keeps its blossoms from end of July right thru Labor Day.
