Crape myrtles are a popular flowering shrub that adds color and beauty to any garden. Two of the most popular varieties of crape myrtles are Red Rocket and Dynamite. In this article, we’ll compare Red Rocket and Dynamite across a range of categories to help you decide which one is the best crape myrtle for your garden.
1. Appearance
When it comes to appearance, both Red Rocket and Dynamite offer stunning flowers and attractive bark.
1.1 Flowers
Red Rocket produces bright red flowers that bloom in mid-summer and last until the fall. The flowers are clustered together in large panicles that can grow up to 8 inches long. Dynamite also produces bright red flowers, but they are a deeper shade of red than Red Rocket’s.
1.2 Bark
Both Red Rocket and Dynamite have attractive bark that peels away to reveal a smooth, cinnamon-colored underlayer. However, Red Rocket’s bark tends to be more textured and exfoliating than Dynamite’s.
2. Size
When it comes to size, Red Rocket and Dynamite are similar in height and spread.
2.1 Height
Red Rocket and Dynamite can both grow up to 20-25 feet tall, making them ideal for a focal point in your garden.
2.2 Spread
Both varieties can also spread up to 15-20 feet wide, providing ample shade and coverage for your garden.
3. Care
When it comes to care, Red Rocket and Dynamite are relatively low-maintenance plants that require similar care.
3.1 Sunlight
Both Red Rocket and Dynamite require full sun exposure to thrive and produce their best flowers.
3.2 Water
Both varieties require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. After that, they are drought-tolerant and can survive with less water.
4. Disease Resistance
When it comes to disease resistance, Red Rocket is more resistant to powdery mildew and other diseases than Dynamite.
5. Price
When it comes to price, both Red Rocket and Dynamite are similarly priced and can be found at most nurseries and garden centers.
Conclusion
Choosing between Red Rocket and Dynamite ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a crape myrtle with stunning flowers and exfoliating bark, Red Rocket is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a crape myrtle that is more disease-resistant, Dynamite is the better option. Regardless of which variety you choose, both Red Rocket and Dynamite will add color and beauty to your garden.
FAQs
Which crape myrtle has brighter red flowers, Red Rocket or Dynamite?
Both varieties have bright red flowers, but Red Rocket’s flowers are a brighter shade of red.
Which crape myrtle is more resistant to disease, Red Rocket or Dynamite?
Red Rocket is more resistant to powdery mildew and other diseases than Dynamite.
Can Red Rocket and Dynamite grow in full sun?
Yes, both Red Rocket and Dynamite require full sun exposure to thrive and produce their best flowers.
Do Red Rocket and Dynamite require regular watering?
Yes, both varieties require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting.
Are Red Rocket and Dynamite similarly priced?
Yes, both Red Rocket and Dynamite are similarly priced and can be found at most nurseries and garden centers.
