Purple crape myrtle blooms colour Hanoi streets in early summer

The streets of the capital city have been transformed into sea of purple colour following the emergence of crape myrtle blossoms, known locally as “Bằng lăng”.

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The crape myrtle trees along major streets namely Kim Ma, Van Cao, Hoang Quoc Viet, Tran Thai Tong, Duy Tan, and Dao Tan are currently in full bloom.

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Crape myrtle, also known as the Queen's Crape-myrtle, a tropical hardwood species, is well suited to Vietnam’s hot and humid climate.

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Every year, crape myrtle trees enter their peak blooming season from around May to June. Some varieties, including Thai crape myrtle, can bloom twice a year, extending into July and August.

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The flowers may be dark purple, light purple, and pinkish purple, and also in white or pink. In Hanoi, purple remains the most common colour.

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Crape-myrtle flowers often grow in clusters and can be between 20cm and 40cm long.

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Each flower features six thin and light petals. The trees serve to bring more shade to commuters around the capital in summer.

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Unlike the bright red flamboyant flowers of summer or the fragrant milk flowers of autumn, crape myrtle offers a softer purple hue that brings a calming contrast to the fast-paced urban landscape.

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Blooming purple flowers tend to coincide with the end of the academic year.

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Each blooming season, the tree-lined streets create a distinct visual identity for Hanoi, contributing to its charm in the eyes of both locals and international visitors.