Native Plants for Winter Interest

Callicarpa americana – American Beautyberry

Callicarpa americana, or American beautyberry, is a medium-sized shrub with lavander-colored blooms that form vibrant bright purple berries in the fall. This plant grows best in evenly moist, well-draining, sandy or clay soils with plenty of organic matter but can be grown in nearly any soil type as long as drainage is adequate. Once established, beautyberry can be drought tolerant. Gardeners should note that plants may defoliate and fruiting performance may be poor during prolonged periods of hot, summer drought. The Best fruiting is in full sun but plants will tolerate light shade.

Pruning this plant in the winter will encourage bushy, compact growth. This plant will tolerate pruning as far back as 1′ from the base or plants can also be left to take on a more natural form. Remove any deadwood in the spring. Mature plants will reach around 3-5′ tall with a similar spread. They have an open growth habit and arching branches. The fruits are showy and persistent, ripening around mid-fall, and are eaten by birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. Best for the back of a shrub border where it can naturalize. Beautyberry plants may bear more fruit in mass plantings.

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Beautyberry with gray tree frog