Stay in the know about wildlife, water quality, and ecosystems on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and in Southwest Florida
Meet the Natives: American Beautyberry
This week we are highlighting the American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)! This shrub is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family, and is found throughout Florida and the southeastern United States. It grows naturally in flatwoods, pinelands, and hammocks.
American beautyberry is an adaptable and easy to maintain shrub that typically prefers full sun to part shade and moist to dry, well-draining soils. It is quick-growing and can get 6-8 feet tall and about 4-8 feet wide.
Typically, beautyberry blooms in the late spring to early summer, producing small, beautiful pink flowers. Following its blooms, beautyberry earns its unique name from the vibrant pink-purple berries that grow in distinct clusters along its stems.
“Beautyberry’s fruits are edible, but don’t have a very appealing taste. However, the berries can be made into a tasty jam or jelly,” said SCCF Native Landscapes & Garden Center Sophie Carpenter. “Additionally, beautyberry leaves contain a chemical that can be used to repel mosquitos by crushing up its leaves.”
In South Florida, beautyberries are generally evergreen. They may become a bit leggy in winter time, and respond well to pruning in late winter to encourage fuller growth.
“Beautyberry is an excellent addition to wildlife gardens. The berries also feed many wildlife species, especially birds,” Carpenter said. “Their flowers attract various pollinator species, including native butterflies and bees.”
American beautyberry is the larval host plant for the spring azure butterfly and snowberry clearwing moth.
Purchase American beautyberry at SCCF’s Native Landscapes & Garden Center on Sanibel, open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday!