Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Real Men Sow
Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a deciduous shrub that slowly grows to a height of approximately 1.8m. It is a hermaphrodite, meaning it has both male and female organs. Cross-pollinating is necessary for fruit production. It should not be grown alone.
They bloom between June and July. Although they are not very noticeable, the blooms attract beneficial wildlife. The most valuable berries are the ones that grow in the midst of the blooms.
Why Should You Grow Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)?
Callicarpa Americana can be grown in a variety of ways. They are not just grown for their beautiful berries; they can also have great ornamental value. Consider growing them in your garden, too.
- Add structure to an informal or formal garden border.
- Roots are responsible for stabilizing friable soil and preventing erosion.
- Extremely pest-tolerant and resistant to honey fungus.
- Great way to attract birds to your garden, especially if you live in the US.
- Attractive to butterflies.
- Great treats for backyard chickens.
- Leaves repel mosquitoes naturally.
- Can be eaten by anyone. The berries are about 6mm in diameter and are sweet to tart. You can eat them raw, but some people don’t like the taste.
Conditions for Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) to Thrive
Beautyberry is most productive when it is planted in partial shade, such as in a garden, under a deciduous tree’s dappled shade, or near the edges of a woodland or forest. It can also thrive in areas without shade, provided the soil doesn’t dry out too much. They will thrive in moist, well-drained soil. They don’t care too much about soil pH.
Growing Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
From Seed
Beautyberry seeds can be planted in the spring for transplanting outdoors in fall or in late autumn to be transplanted in spring. Your growing medium should not be more than a thin layer of seed cover. Although the seeds take a while to germinate at 65°F, they should be ready for use within 1-3 months. Seedlings can be separated into individual pots if they are big enough. They can be transplanted outdoors in spring or autumn.
From Cuttings
You can also propagate Beautyberry from cuttings. Take cuttings from the current season’s growth in the early spring. You can also take semi-ripe cuts of approximately 10 cm in length in July and August.
General Care Guide Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
In a sunny spot, the plant will need more water. It should not be watered in the shade of trees or other plants. It should receive slow, deep watering during dry spells. They need to be hydrated at least one inch per week, although they will tolerate dry conditions.
Callicarpa Americana is a low-maintenance plant. They don’t need to be fertilized. Over-feeding your plants, especially with nitrogen-rich feeds, can lead to fewer berries.
Beautyberry flowers on new wood. Pruning isn’t always necessary, but it can be done (for shaping and forming) in the winter. The plants at the northern end are often pruned to a minimum of one foot each year just before spring arrives.
