Callicarpa dichotoma (Purple Beautyberry)

Callicarpa dichotoma, also known as Chinese or purple beautyberry, is an eye-catching shrub that grows to about 2-4' tall and 3-5' wide. In the spring, small, pale green leaves emerge, followed by pink-lavender flowers in the summer that attract bees and butterflies. Pollinated blooms turn to showy berry clusters in the fall, which contrast well with light green early autumn foliage. Berries persist after leaves have fallen leaving food for the birds and mammals, and adding multi-season interest. Easily found in the landscape by its clusters of vivid, purple berries Callicarpa dichotoma is a great addition to the landscape for both fall and winter.

Chinese beautyberry is often mistaken for the North American native Callicarpa americana, due to the showy purple berries of the genus, but the Chinese variety has looser, hanging berries and a generally more compact size. Callicarpa dichotoma prefers full sun or part shade and can be easily grown in a variety of medium moisture, well-drained soils. For the best visual effects and berry production, purple beautyberry can be planted in masses and screens, and works well as a naturalized understory plant or alongside bodies of water for colorful accent.