Callicarpa americana

During the spring and summer, beautyberry is hardly distinguishable in a group of shrubs, but come fall-watch out! Clusters of vivid purple berries grow around the stem of the shrub. Its scientific name—Callicarpa americana—comes from the Greek kallos, which means beautiful, and karpos, which means fruit. Americana indicates that it comes from America; other species are found in other countries. Mockingbirds, sparrows, and thrushes feed on this spectacular native plant. Many nurseries carry this lovely bush, so you easily can add a little "beauty" to your yard this fall.

back to Nature Notebook