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 0°F (-18°C).

Feeding

Topdress the root zone with rotted manure in late winter or early spring.

Spacing

Single Plants: 6' 6" (2.00m) each way (minimum)
Rows: 6' 6" (2.00m) with 6' 6" (2.00m) 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 in spring at about the time of your last frost. 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 personalized 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 fall. 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 14 inches (35 cm) to remove old canes and encourage bushy growth. Beautyberry blooms and sets berries on new wood.

Harvesting

Branches can be used in cut arrangements.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Beautyberry

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail