Lagerstroemia macrocarpa (Large-fruited Crape Myrtle)

Native to mainland Southeast Asia, this deciduous tree has gray to brown bark that cracks and flakes into thin pieces. Large, smooth leaves show conspicuous paired lateral veins. Loose flower clusters develop at the branch tips, carrying violet or pink blooms that fade as they age. The rounded petals have narrow bases, and the numerous stamens are similar in length. Large, dull brown capsules open into six sections, releasing winged seeds. Its timber is used for house pillars and boards, and it is sometimes planted as an ornamental. The species grows in open forest and along streams and roads, with flowering commonly occurring from March to June in mainland Southeast Asia. Photographed in Florida.