How long does crape myrtle bark take to mature?

For those of you who have crapes in your collection, how long does it generally take for the bark on new growth to mature? At what point does it transition from the rough textured bark of new growth, to the smooth more appealing bark found on older parts of a tree?

At least with the varieties I deal with, they have smooth bark from day one.

Let's see a closeup picture of what you call "rough" bark on a crape myrtle.

JimLewis wrote:At least with the varieties I deal with, they have smooth bark from day one.

Let's see a closeup picture of what you call "rough" bark on a crape myrtle.  

I guess rough is a subjective term.



See how the bark on the new growth has a very different color and texture than that of the older part? I suppose that compared to other trees, it's not very rough, but it's much rougher than the older bark.

It looks to me like this is just rapid growth that is splitting the bark a bit. Once the growth slows down it should start to take on the smoother texture. My crape myrtles are all to small to see this, but I have see it on other species.

I can't tell you how long it will take, but the natural progression of crape myrtles is that as the bark matures, it peels/flakes off, revealing a smooth new bark underneath, which will then gradually mature, perhaps roughen, and peel eventually, and so on.
Oliver

I'd guess that the "rough" bark will flake and peel next year.

Peaceful,

I actually have a rough bark type, and as I get an image I will put it here for you to see.
Later.
Khaimraj

Here you are Peaceful,
apologies for taking so long.
A cork barked Crepe.
Later.
Khaimraj