Native Plants for Winter Interest

Callicarpa americana – American Beautyberry

Callicarpa americana, or American beautyberry is a meduim-sized native shrub with vibrant bright purple berries in the fall. 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. Tolerant of some drought once established. Plants may defoliate and fruiting performance may be poor during prolonged periods of hot, summer drought. Best fruiting is in full sun but plants will tolerate light shade.

Prune in winter to encourage more bushy, compact growth. Plants will tolerate pruning as far back as 1′ from the base or plants can also be left to take on a more natural form. Deadwood should be removed in 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 be massed or where it can naturalize. Beautyberry plants are said to bear more fruit if several are planted together.