In Vietnam, Lagerstroemia indica (known as crepe myrtle) is grown and often shaped as an ornamental plant. The Vietnamese have a long tradition of shaping plants and bonsai, and this includes this plant, which is popular for its beautiful flowers and attractive bark. It is often shaped using wire, and sometimes these trees are shaped into geometric or symbolic shapes (e.g. circles, arches), which is especially popular during celebrations such as Tết (Vietnamese New Year).