Developed by the National Arboretum and designated a Plant of Merit by the Missouri Botanical Gardens, Acoma Crapemyrtles, Lagerstroemia, is a sure bet. Large white flower panicles bloom from summer to fall. This large shrub or small tree looks excellent against brick buildings, where its white flowers and glossy green foliage contrast against the red brick. In fall, the deep green leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow. It can grow up to 10′ tall and wide, but it usually has some winter die-back in the St. Louis area, keeping it around 5-6′ tall.

Crapemyrtles are easy-to-grow shrubs that thrive in sunny hot spots. Expect to see winter die-back most years in St. Louis, sometimes all the way to the ground. Late to wake up, sometimes Crapemyrtles stay sleeping until mid-May.