American Beautyberry

Plant Name: American Beautyberry

Botanical Name: Callicarpa americana

Description (growth habits, light requirements & care): An accent flowering shrub with attractive large leaf foliage and showy, dense clusters of fruit that are a favorite of songbirds, and can also be eaten by humans. Great plant for creating layers and sound/visual buffers. Typically a fast grower, 5-6 feet in height, but needs to be pruned back in spring to limit its size, or will grow into a large shrub (9-10) feet if left unchecked. Thrives in full sun to partial shade.

How you help by planting this: This is nectar plant for a variety of butterflies. Birds love the attractive fruits which can be pink/purple to white in color. Can also provide cover for birds and other wildlife.

Flower and Fruit (color, characteristics, season):Pink to white. Fruit growing in dense clusters. Can flower and produce fruit all year, peak fruit production peak summer-fall. Making this one of nature’s bird feeders.

Pairs well with: Wild Coffee, Saw Palmetto, Wild Sage,  

Extra Note: The fruit has a long-history as an ingredient for making jelly, jello, syrup and even tea. This plant can also be used as a natural pest control. Native Americans have used the roots, bark and leaves to make natural pest control. A simple tincture can help deter mosquitos and other outdoor pests.