Callicarpa americana – Beautyberry, French Mulberry, Sour-Bush

General Information: This compact, fall-fruiting, deciduous, woody shrub is a unique addition to the garden. Beautyberry produces clusters of pearl-sized, iridescent, fuchsia-colored berries in late summer that persist into winter after the leaves have fallen, adding multi-season appeal. Fruit forms at the leaf axils (where the stems meet the leaves). Beautyberry usually grows to just 3-6 feet, but can reach up to 9 feet under ideal conditions. In early spring, green leaves appear on long, elegant, upright arching stems. By summer, dense clusters of small pink flowers appear at the bases of the leaves. By late summer and early fall, Beautyberry showcases the vivid, intriguing, fuchsia berries that encircle the stem. Fall foliage is an interesting yellow-green. The striking berries attract many bird species in the fall and winter. The seeds and berries are important foods for many species of birds, particularly the Northern Bobwhite. Foliage is a favorite of White-tailed Deer. Unusual and attractive – a perfect specimen plant! Ideal for wildlife plantings and ornamental gardens alike.

Edible & Useful Qualities: While the fruits are technically edible, they are often described as astringent and not worth eating, although they certainly look appealing! Instead, we recommend using the plant as a bug-repellent. Crushed leaves repel Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Fire Ants. The compounds in leaves, Callicarpenal and intermedeol, have antibacterial and pest-deterring properties. Extracts from the plant can also be found in some modern skin care products. This plant is used medicinally by Indigenous Peoples.

Cultivation Details: The plant is self-fertile, only one is required to produce these stunning fruits! Pink to lavender flowers bloom July to August. Low to average maintenance requirements. The flowers and fruits appear on new shoots, so pruning is recommended. It is best to prune the plants in late winter. Old stems should be removed for rejuvenation. American Beautyberry is native to the southeastern United States, and it is often seen growing in meadows, thickets, woodlands, and along shores of ponds and streams.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Does not tolerate full shade. Prefers soils with medium moisture. Tolerates most soil types, including very dry and clay soils. Tolerates soils that are mildly acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline.