This elegant flowering tree is the White Crepe Myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica ‘Alba’.

It is best known for its clusters of pure white flowers. Each blossom has thin, crinkled petals that resemble crepe paper, which gives the tree its common name.

The flowers are carried at the ends of the branches and may cover much of the crown during the blooming season. Bees, butterflies, and other insects visit them for nectar and pollen.

Its leaves are small, smooth, and oval. In climates with a cooler or drier season, they may turn yellow, orange, or red before falling.

The bark is another attractive feature. As the tree matures, the outer bark peels away in patches, revealing smooth areas of cream, tan, gray, and reddish brown beneath.

After flowering, small rounded seed capsules develop. These dry on the tree and split open to release many winged seeds.

White Crepe Myrtle is a cultivated white-flowering form of Lagerstroemia indica, a species native to Asia. It is widely planted in warm climates because it tolerates heat, pruning, and periods of drought.

Even when it is not in bloom, its graceful branches and mottled bark make it attractive. But when the white flowers appear, the tree can look as though its entire crown has been covered with lace.