Looking for a crapemyrtle that doesn't disappear in the crowd? This is it! The CENTER STAGE ® Red series was developed by Spring Meadow's Megan Mathey with the goal of very disease-resistant black foliage and super stunning flower color. CENTER STAGE ® Red is the first to market, with vivacious cerise-colored blooms in summer. Performing very well in heat trials as well as in our field and gardens here in West Michigan. 2023 Blue Chip designee - Louisiana State University (LSU) AgCenter.