Abstract:

An investigation and classification of Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) cultivars in Shandong Province were carried out based on characters of flower colors, flower diameters, and plant types. The cultivar classification principle and criteria were discussed, and one new cultivar group was established, i.e. Lagerstroemia indica Aisheng Group. Thirty-nine cultivars were recorded, including 13 cultivars in Amabilis Group, 14 in Rubra Group, 5 in Alba Group, 5 in Sajin Group, and 2 in Aisheng Group. Among them there were six new cultivars. A classification key was compiled for cultivar identification. In addition, 2 cultivars derived from hybrid of L. indica and L. limii were renamed.

Key words: Lagerstroemia indica, cultivar classification, cultivar group, key, Shandong Province