Crape Myrtle shrub named `Whit I`

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of crape myrtly, Lagerstroemia indica, which is characterized by a dense, upright, and pyramidal growth habit, leathery leaves which emerge crimson and slowly change to medium green, few seed heads, late flowering season, inflorescences which are six to twelve inches tall and four to eight inches wide, and flower petals that range from cardinal red bordered irregularly by white on hot summer days to pink with more white on cooler or cloudy days.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of Lagerstroemia indica, crape myrtle, plant substantially as shown and described and partially characterized by a dense, upright, and pyramidal growth habit large shrub or small tree that may reach 15 feet or more in height, crimson new leathery foliage that quickly changes to medium green with age, a variegated flower predominantly cardinal red bordered by white on the outer margin, few seeds, and an exceptionally long bloom period.