ExplorePlants

American beautyberry

Callicarpa americana

The American beautyberry is a lovely shrub that grows colorful purple berries. These berries are not only pretty but also attract birds and other animals who love to eat them!

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The American beautyberry has arching branches adorned with pale green, oval leaves. In fall, its most striking feature emerges: dense clusters of iridescent magenta-purple berries that tightly hug the stems, creating a vivid contrast.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderLamialesFamilyLamiaceaeGenusCallicarpa
American beautyberry
shrub trait badgefruit_bearing trait badgemedicinal trait badgeedible trait badge
American beautyberry

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Birds find beautyberry's colorful fruits especially tasty after the first freeze!

Its vibrant berries often remain on branches long after leaves have fallen.

Native Americans traditionally used parts of this plant for various purposes.

The name "Callicarpa" literally means "beautiful fruit" in Greek!

Special abilities

Ability

Bug Banisher Leaves

American beautyberry leaves can release compounds that naturally repel mosquitoes and other annoying insects.

Ability

Resilient Rooter

This plant can quickly regrow from its roots, helping it bounce back after wildfires or heavy pruning.

Ability

Drought Defender

American beautyberry can survive in dry conditions thanks to its efficient water usage and deep root system.

Measurements & details

Height
100-200 cm
Spread
100-200 cm
Flower Size
0.3-0.5 cm
Bloom Season
Late Spring to Early Summer
Edible
No
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Beautyberry

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

While beautyberries are safe to touch, it's best to look and not eat unless an adult says it's okay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is American beautyberry?

100-200 cm

How wide does American beautyberry spread?

100-200 cm

How big are the flowers on American beautyberry?

0.3-0.5 cm

When does American beautyberry bloom?

Late Spring to Early Summer

Is American beautyberry edible?

No

Is American beautyberry toxic?

Mild

What is American beautyberry's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is American beautyberry pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.

Loading map…

Recent Snaps

Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Where to spot

More Plants