Purple Beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Purple Beautyberry
Callicarpa dichotoma

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Fruit of the cultivar 'Issai'
Fruit of the cultivar 'Issai'
 
Features
Small, pink flowers, mid-late summer; clusters of small, bright violet-purple berries in autumn; yellow or purplish autumn color. 
 
Culture
Full sun to light shade; moist, well-drained soil; best in acid soil, but tolerates neutral soil pH. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Early Amethyst' - Produces large quantities of fruit; 3-4 feet tall.
  • 'Issai' - Produces heavy fruit crop at an early age.
 
 
Mature Height
4-6 Feet
 
Size
Small
 
 
Mature Width
4-6 Feet (or slightly larger)
 
Mature Form
Rounded with arching branches 
 
Native To:
China, Japan 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Border
Massing
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Purple
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

In northern climates (zone 5), stems may die back to the ground. Since the shrub blooms on new wood, this will not affect flower and fruit production. In areas where winter dieback does not occur, pruning may be needed to keep the plant looking attractive.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic