Patented Cultivars of Lagerstroemia in the US and Trends of Breeding in China

Lagerstroemia indica is an important ornamental plant with blooming in summer, magnificent bark in winter and different landscape use. It is native to China, but more cultivars were bred in the US. Presentations were made on 94 patented cultivars of Lagerstroemia in the US, in terms of origination, tree-type, petal color, blooming period, leaf color and cold hardiness. Analysis on current situation of cultivars and propagation techniques both in the US and China, advices were put forwarded such as investigation and identification, as well as strengthening modern biotechnique with traditional breeding for selection of new cultivars with better traits and higher commercial value.