Tonto is a semi-dwarf crape myrtle that tops out around six to eight feet, so it fits where the big varieties won't. Large clusters of fuchsia-red blooms cover the plant through the heat of summer, and the foliage turns orange-red in fall.

The smooth, peeling bark keeps it interesting in winter. Give it full sun and room for air to move through; it resists mildew and shrugs off heat and drought once established. Works as a multi-stemmed accent near a patio or grouped along a drive.