Purple beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma) is a compact, deciduous, woody shrub with showy ornamental fruits that may last long after the shrub has dropped its leaves in fall. Beautyberry is among the finest ornamental fruiting shrubs and easy to care for.

Purple beautyberry is a native of China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam and is in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Several other species of Callicarpa are found worldwide. (Zones 5-8). In cold USDA Zone 5 winters, stems may die back to the ground with new growth emerging from the shrub base in spring. Plant several for adequate cross-pollination and more numerous fruits.

This Asian form typically grows 2 to 4 feet high and 4-5 feet wide. Beautyberry prefers full day sun to guarantee lots of flowers and fruits. Under too much shade, branches become leggy and less fruitful.  Plant in well-drained soil and irrigate during seasonal dry spells. Beautyberry becomes quite drought tolerant after its initial planting year.

Clusters of pink to lavender flowers emerge in late spring and summer on new wood, followed by clusters of lilac-violet berries that ripen in September through October. In late winter or early spring prune to the desired shape and size. An alternative pruning step is to cut all stems back to 6 inches in late winter, particularly if winter has been unusually harsh.

Leaves are smaller, aligned closer together on branches and fine-textured compared to large coarse-leaved American specie (C. americana) — that is also taller-growing. Compact growing Asian beautyberry makes a better fit for growing in large patio containers.

When properly sited and cared for, disease and insect problems are rarely observed. Otherwise, fungal leaf spot, mildew, stem cankers, and black mold may become troublesome.

Beautyberry flowers attract bees and butterflies, and birds and small mammals are attracted to the fruits. It is also deer resistant.  

Four of the Finest Cultivars:

‘Early Amethyst’ grows to 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. Light pink flowers are followed by large clusters of bright, glossy, 1/8 inch wide, amethyst-purple fruits earlier (late August -November). Fruits often persist into winter and can be a prolific seeder (weedy?).

Pearl Glam™ (C. dichotoma x C. kwangtungensis) is an upright growing form with dark purple foliage and an early fruiting display.  This compact plant grows to a mature height of 4 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.

‘Issai’ grows to 2-3 feet high and bear lilac-violet fruits earlier.

‘Duet’ (f. albafructus) – 6 feet tall and wide deciduous shrub bearing medium green foliage with creamy yellow margins and an eye-catching display of pure white berries.

Caution: American beautyberry is a better choice in States that list C. dichotoma as invasive.