American beautyberry - Callicarpa americana (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

American beautyberry

Also known as: French mulberry

Commonly found in woodlands and open meadows, the american beautyberry is an excellent food source for small mammals and songbirds. When the leaves are crushed, they produce an extract that acts as a mosquito repellent. It is ideally planted in home and garden landscapes. The berries are edible, although they tend to be bitter when raw, but they can be sweetened and used in jellies when cooked.

Scientific classification

Species

American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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90 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green, Bronze

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Green, Blue, Lavender, Pink

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Purple

Flower Color

Brown, Green, Purple, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of American beautyberry

Attributes of American beautyberry

Growth Rate

American beautyberry's moderate growth rate, active during spring and summer, precipitates a balanced expansion. Consistent development in leaf production and stem elongation is evident. Seasonal variations in growth speeds present, intensifying in summer. This growth rhythm supports abundant clusters of purple berries, a distinctive horticultural charm of american beautyberry.

Distribution of American beautyberry

Distribution Map

American beautyberry is native to the southern United States, Bermuda, and Cuba. It grows naturally on forest floors as well as other semi-shady areas. It is sometimes cultivated as well.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich woods, thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

American beautyberries are a natural insect repellent.

Garden Use

The american beautyberry is a welcome addition to decorative flowerbeds. Prized for its appearance and edible berries, planting it in clumps can create a pretty privacy screen. It is a good fit for swamp and butterfly gardens and is often planted with other plants with similar growth styles and appearances, like the Virginia pine and flowering dogwood.

Symbolism

Wisdom, preparation, dignity, seriousness, mourning

Interesting Facts

The Latin name Callicarpa means "beautiful fruit". There is a classic book about the beautyberry in Japan called "The Tale of Genji". In this book, the author compares beautiful and elegant women to beautyberries.

Name Story

American beautyberry: This plant is being cultivated as an ornamental plant in the United States. It produces a large number of berries, like miniature grapes hanging in clusters on the branches. The purple berries are especially lovely and beautiful under sunlight. As beautyberry means that the berries are beautiful, it is then called American beautyberry.

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Quickly Identify American beautyberry

Multi-stemmed habit reaching 3-8 feet (1-2.5 meters) in height.

Oppositely arranged, serrated leaves with medium green color and wooly undersides.

Clusters of small lavender to pink flowers in cymes at leaf axils.

Distinctive tight clusters of glossy, bright purple berries encircling stems.

Trunk with smooth, light brown bark transitioning to reddish-brown with corky ridges.

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Care Guide for American beautyberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Native to humid southeastern U.S. environments, american beautyberry prefers consistent moisture but is moderately drought-tolerant. Water every 1-2 weeks and use mulch to retain moisture during dry periods, especially in its growing season, enhancing its health and appealing berries and foliage.

Fertilize: For optimal health, american beautyberry requires balanced nutrition fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and high-nitrogen in early summer for foliage growth. Apply as per label, avoiding over-fertilization. Water american beautyberry post-application for better nutrient absorption, and reduce fertilizer in fall.

Pruning: American beautyberry features vibrant purple berries and arching branches and should be pruned in early spring. Cut back one-third of the oldest stems to promote fullness and berry production. Remove dead wood, maintain size, and use clean tools to prevent disease. Consult horticultural guides for details.

Propagation: Native to the southeastern United States, american beautyberry features striking purple berries and lush foliage. Propagation involves collecting 4-6 inch softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer, using rooting hormone, and planting in well-draining soil with high humidity. Rooting occurs in weeks, allowing for transplantation.

Repotting: American beautyberry should be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring, using a pot 2 inches larger in diameter. After repotting, provide bright indirect light and ensure consistent moisture without overwatering to promote recovery and enhance berry production.

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Images of American beautyberry

Attributes of American beautyberry

Distribution of American beautyberry

Culture

Quickly Identify American beautyberry

Care Guide for American beautyberry

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