Purple beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma) kal-lee-KAR-pah dy-KOT-oh-mah Genus:  Callicarpa 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 Characteristics:  Scores of berries in an unusual purple color. Attracts birds. Care:  Needs 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. Propagation:  Root softwood cuttings in spring, or semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer. Sow seed in a cold frame in spring or fall. Problems:  Cottony camellia scale, die back, leaf scorch, black mildew, and fungal leaf spots occur.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Pink Uses Beds and Borders, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs