Beautyberry Growing Guide
Callicarpa americana
Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous ●
Soil
Moist, well-drained soil enriched with plenty of compost or other organic matter.
Position
Full sun to part shade.
Frost tolerant
Beautyberry is winter hardy only in moderate climates, with winter injury likely below -18°C (0°F).
Feeding
Topdress the root zone with rotted manure in late winter or early spring.
Spacing
Single Plants: 2.00m (6' 6") each way (minimum)
Rows: 2.00m (6' 6") with 2.00m (6' 6") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Beautyberry can be started from seeds, rooted cuttings, or purchased plants. Soak seeds in water overnight, then sow outdoors in late winter. Seedings will appear when the soil warms in spring. Take cuttings from established plants in spring for rooting in well drained potting soil. Set out purchased plants from autumn through to spring, as long as your soil is not frozen. Container-grown plants can be set out until early summer. Water young plants regularly, and cover the root zone with an organic mulch to keep the soil moist at all times.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Native to the southeastern US, beautyberry is known for its clusters of purple (sometimes white) berries that adorn the plants from late summer to autumn. The plants prefer moist conditions, and grow wild along stream banks or in moist woods. When crushed, the leaves repel mosquitoes and other insects. Many birds and small animals eat the berries, though by human standards they are inedible.In late winter or early spring, prune plants back to about 35cm (14 inches) to remove old canes and encourage bushy growth. Beautyberry blooms and sets berries on new wood.
Harvesting
Branches can be used in cut arrangements.
Troubleshooting
Pests and diseases are uncommon with beautyberry, but deer often nibble the leaves.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
< Back to All Plants
Pests which Affect Beautyberry