American Beautyberry
Callicarpa americana
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Pl. 2CA6 — Callicarpa americana
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IOverview
Overview
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, medium soil. Hardy from zones 7-10, this plant can grow up to 1.8 meters tall. Known for its ornamental value, American Beautyberry is recognized by its purple berries that appear in late summer and fall, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The fruit is edible and has been used for jams and jellies, making it a valuable addition to gardens not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its culinary uses.
Quick answers
What is American Beautyberry?
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, medium soil. Hardy from zones 7-10, this plant can grow up to 1.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
American Beautyberry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, medium-quality soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 1.8 meters tall. Propagate through cuttings or seeds. The fruit is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow American Beautyberry for the first time
8steps
Start with American Beautyberry as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
American Beautyberry plants or seeds, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant American Beautyberry in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery, or sow seeds directly into the ground in early spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain shape. Harvest fruit for decorative purposes after ripening.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The American Beautyberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. The berries are also sometimes dried for later use. Skip the seeds before consumption as they are not palatable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 18 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas2 regions
native (2)BahamasCuba
Broader regions
native:Bermuda, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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