Callicarpa dichotoma: Purple Beautyberry with Arching Form

Callicarpa dichotoma – Lilac-Violet Berries on Arching Branches

Purple beautyberry is a small deciduous shrub native to China, Korea, and Japan, grown for rows of lilac-violet, glossy fruit. Long arching branches often touch the ground, giving elegant shape. Small pink summer flowers followed by fruit ripening in September–October. Good yellow fall color.

Care & Culture

Needs fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or dappled shade. Prune annually in early spring to a low framework. Plant in groups for good fruit set. Propagate via softwood cuttings in spring, semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or seed in cold frame. Pests: cottony camellia scale, dieback, leaf scorch, mildew, fungal leaf spots.

At a Glance

• Height/Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom: Summer (pink)
• Fruit: Fall (lilac-violet)
• Features: Attracts birds, elegant arching habit