Early Amethyst Beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma 'Early Amethyst')

Early Amethyst Beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma 'Early Amethyst') is a deciduous shrub with a loose, open habit and green foliage. Clusters of tiny lavender-pink flowers attract bees and butterflies in summer, followed by bright magenta berries.

The fruit ripens earlier than the species and can persist into early winter. Grow in full sun to part sun.

Growing details

• Plant type: Deciduous shrub
• Mature height: 3–4 feet
• Mature spread: 3–5 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 4 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 5–8
• Light: Full sun to part sun
• Flowers: Lavender-pink in summer
• Fruit: Bright magenta berries, potentially lasting into early winter
• Habit: Loose and open

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance shrub can be pruned in winter or early spring. Planting several together can encourage better fruit production.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, sunny woodland edges, or suitably sized containers. Pair with holly or abelia where growing conditions suit each plant.

Image credits: David J. Stang, Callicarpa dichotoma Early Amethyst 1zz, CC BY-SA 4.0; (2) Photo ©2007 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man), Purple Beautyberry Callicarpa dichotoma 'Early Amethyst' Berries 3008px, CC BY-SA 2.5; (3) Photo ©2007 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man), Purple Beautyberry Callicarpa dichotoma 'Early Amethyst' Leaves 2800px, CC BY-SA 2.5. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.