American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a native deciduous shrub prized for its bright magenta fruit. Clusters of small, light pink flowers bloom in summer, attracting bees and butterflies before giving way to colorful berries.

Its loose, open habit suits woodland borders, wildlife gardens, grouped plantings, and naturalized areas. Native to southeastern North America, including Georgia, this shrub brings summer flowers and fall fruit interest to native garden designs.

Growing details

• Plant type: Deciduous shrub
• Origin: Southeastern North America; Georgia native
• Mature size: 3–6 feet tall and wide
• Spacing: Approximately 5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 6–10
• Light: Full sun to part sun; best growth in full sun
• Flowers: Small, light pink flowers in summer
• Fruit: Bright magenta berries
• Seasonal interest: Summer and fall

Care and landscape use

American Beautyberry is low maintenance. Some shade can help with drought tolerance. Prune in winter or early spring to encourage flowering, and consider planting more than one shrub to encourage stronger flower and fruit displays.

Use it as an accent or in groups where its colorful fruit can stand out against neighboring foliage. It also works in borders and spacious containers.

Image credits: Eric Hunt, Callicarpa americana 2, CC BY-SA 3.0; Bob Peterson, American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) (7729346546), CC BY-SA 2.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.