October’s plant spotlight is American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana). American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a woody, deciduous, perennial shrub that produces showy purple fruit in the fall. Native to the central and southeastern United States, it’s often found in its native habitat in woodlands and along edges of ditches and streams.

This shrub prefers full sun to part shade but is intolerant of deep shade. It can grow 3 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide with upright, arching stems. It will grow in all types of well-drained soil. This plant is well-suited for large landscapes, naturalized areas, and is a great addition to native gardens and pollinator gardens.

American beautyberry provides a vibrant splash of fall color with its attractive purple fruit, which is uniquely arranged in clusters that encircle the stem. The fruit can remain on the plant into winter providing food for songbirds and small mammals. Cultivars are available with fruit colors that vary beyond the common purple, including pink and white.

This shrub can be pruned back to about 1 foot high in late winter, as its flowers and fruits will appear on new shoots. It can also be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.

With its low maintenance, adaptability, and stunning fall color, American Beautyberry, is a great choice for any home gardener looking to add a unique native plant to their landscape. Not only will you enjoy its vibrant purple berries but also provide a valuable food source for local wildlife well into the winter months.

Jessica Strickland is an Agriculture Extension Agent, specializing in horticulture for North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Wayne County.

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