This species is listed here not for consideration in its own right but because of its importance as a breeding partner, having showier bark, greater cold-hardiness, somewhat fragrant blooms (at least according to Dirr; I think none of my other sources mentioned it though), and resistance to powdery mildew compared to L. indica. The downsides are less showy flowers, no reblooming, and less showy fall color.
Sunset does not recommend the species north of zone 32, but they do recommend 'Townhouse' for as far as Cape Cod (so, zone 34). Fertilizing and overwatering in summer can impair hardiness.
'Muskogee' and 'Tonto' are considered two of the cold-hardiest hybrids between this species and L. indica. Hybrid 'Natchez' is fast-growing and a PHS Gold Medal Award winner.
Sources: UFL, Sunset, Dirr, Cal Poly, NCSU.
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