Grown for its rows of lilac-violet, round, glossy, tiny fruit, purple beautyberry is a small, deciduous shrub native to China, Korea, and Japan. Its long, arching branches often touch the ground, giving it an elegant shape. The small pink flowers in summer are followed by the small fruits that ripen in September and last through October. It has good yellow fall color as well.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsScores of berries in an unusual purple color. Attracts birds.
CareNeeds fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or dappled shade. Prune annually, as buds begin to swell in early spring, to a low permanent framework. Plant in groups to assure good fruit set.
PropagationRoot softwood cuttings in spring, or semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer. Sow seed in a cold frame in spring or fall.
ProblemsCottony camellia scale, die back, leaf scorch, black mildew, and fungal leaf spots occur.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Impact-resistant, plastic base
- Soft grip on multi-pattern head
Dramm Revolution Adjustable 9-Pattern Metal Hose Nozzle
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Ergonomic insulated grip
- Maximum pressure of 90 PSI
- Fully adjustable spray pattern
- No trigger lock
Scotts Cordless Grass-Shear/Shrub-Trimmer Combo
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- 13.5 x 3 x 5 inches
- Uses a 7.2-Volt 2Ah high-capacity built-in lithium-ion battery; Includes a fast charger
- Genus : Callicarpa
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Flower Color : Pink
- Characteristics : Showy Fruit
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
