Callicarpa americana
 
Common Names: American Beautyberry, French Mulberry, Sour Bush, Bunchberry
 
Zones: 6–10
 
A deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States, Callicarpa americana is celebrated for its vibrant clusters of magenta to violet berries that encircle the stems in fall. Found in woodlands, thickets, and coastal plains from Maryland to Texas, it provides seasonal interest, wildlife value, and naturalistic charm. This species is a favorite in native gardens and restoration plantings.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Multi-stemmed; open and arching; fast-growing
Height: Typically 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m); can reach 8 ft (2.4 m) in ideal conditions
Trunk: Woody stems; gray to brown; slender; exfoliating with age
Leaves: Opposite; ovate; 3–6 in. (7–15 cm) long; light green; slightly rough
Inflorescence: Small pink to lavender flowers in axillary cymes; bloom late spring to summer
Fruit: Tight clusters of glossy purple berries; ¼ in. (6 mm); ripen in fall; edible but astringent
Ecology: Native to open woods, edges, and sandy soils; attracts birds and pollinators
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy to loamy; well-drained; tolerates poor soils
Temperature: Tolerates –10 to 95°F (–23 to 35°C); thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high; adaptable to coastal and inland zones
Propagation: By seed or softwood cuttings; germinates readily
Tolerance: Deer-resistant; tolerates drought and light salt exposure
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for native gardens, wildlife borders, and restoration zones. Its striking fall berries and loose form add seasonal interest and ecological value. Pairs well with Ilex verticillata, Solidago rugosa, and Muhlenbergia capillaris in naturalistic or pollinator-focused designs.