Callicarpa americana (American Beautyberry) Seed Packet

Callicarpa americana, the American beautyberry, is a deciduous native shrub with striking clusters of vivid purple berries that encircle the stems in late summer and fall. The shrub has an open, arching habit with softly pubescent, aromatic leaves and small, pale pink to lavender flowers from late spring into early summer.

American beautyberry commonly occurs nearby coastal areas, woodland edges, in open understories, and in moist thickets, where filtered light and well-drained soils support vigorous growth. Although visually modest while flowering, the plant becomes highly ornamental once fruit sets, often persisting well into winter. A common invasive plant, the asian beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma) has smaller leaves and clusters of berries, and is more weeping in habit.

The nectar and pollen of American beautyberry's flowers attract a range of native bees, butterflies, and other insects, while the abundant berries are a crucial late-season food source for birds such as mockingbirds, cardinals, thrushes, and towhees, as well as small mammals. The foliage serves as a host for several Lepidoptera, and provides cover for wildlife throughout the growing season.

The vibrant berries are edible but highly astringent when raw, often being used in making wine, jams and jellies. The fresh leaves contain compounds that naturally repel mosquitoes.