Callicarpa americana 'Atropurpurea'

American Purple Beautyberry

Found throughout the Southeast, this easy-to-grow shrub produces groups of small pinkish flowers followed by large clusters of purple berries that encircle the stems. The fruit clusters develop from August through October and may last through the winter.  Plants are drought tolerant but grow better with adequate moisture and fruit is more abundant in full sun. Can be naturalized or massed for great effect.

Branches are often used in fall arrangements and the berry clusters are a food source for many songbirds, including the American Robin, Brown Thrasher, Purple Finch, and Eastern Towhee. Armadillos, foxes, opossums, raccoons, and squirrels also consume the berries. 

  • Native, deciduous shrub
  • Light lavender-pink flowers
  • Deep purple berries

  • Category: Shrub, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 6-10
  • Height: 4-8 ft
  • Spread: 3-6 ft
  • Foliage Color: Green
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Landscape Characteristics
• Flowers
• Ornamental Fruit
Specialty Use
• Wildlife Garden
Attracts Wildlife
• Attracts Pollinators
• Attracts Songbirds
Classification by Use
• Drought Tolerant
• Mass Planting
• Native
Habit
• Upright
Light Requirement
• Part Shade
• Part Sun
• Sun
Foliage
• Deciduous
Season of Interest (Flowering)
• Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage)
• Fall
Growth Rate
• Moderate
Soil Moisture
• Average Water
Foliage Color
• Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Callicarpa americana 'Atropurpurea'

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun to light shade. Prune plants back in spring 6-12" from the ground. Flowers are formed on new growth. Use minimal fertilizer to keep plants from getting leggy.