American beautyberry
Callicarpa americana
Family: Lamiaceae
What it is like
A shrub. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 1-3 m tall. It has several branches. The leaves are broad and have strong veins. The leaves are downy on the underside. The leaves are 20 cm long and have teeth. The leaves turn golden colour in autumn. The flowers are in the axils of leaves. The flowers are pink to purple and small. The fruit are brilliant mauve. They occur in tight clusters like bunches of grapes. The berries are 5 mm across.
There are about 140-150 Callicarpa species. Previously in the Verbenaceae family.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It will grow in most soils and conditions. It is frost resistant but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 6-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Central America, Europe, Hawaii, North America, Pacific, Tasmania, USA (country/location of origin), West Indies
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Fruit, leaves - tea
How it is grown
They can be grown from tip cuttings. It can also be grown from seed.
Its other names
Local names
French mulberry