American Beautyberry
Callicarpa americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Callicarpa americana is a native deciduous shrub found throughout the southeastern United States, producing clusters of bright purple berries from spring through summer that attract butterflies and birds.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Beautyberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
48"–72" H × 48"–72" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 11 more states
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American Beautyberry is a native Texas shrub known for its stunning purple berry clusters that appear in fall after small pink flowers bloom from spring through summer. This drought-tolerant plant grows into a rounded shape and provides year-round interest with its seasonal changes.
Growing American Beautyberry
Grow American Beautyberry in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 48 to 72 inches tall and spread 48 to 72 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Beautyberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators throughout the growing season. The bright purple berries are a valuable food source for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- Where does American Beautyberry grow naturally?
- American Beautyberry is native to the southeastern United States, naturally occurring from Texas and Oklahoma east to Maryland and south through Florida.
- When does Callicarpa americana bloom?
- American Beautyberry blooms from March through August, producing small clusters of pink to white flowers that develop into the characteristic purple berries.
- What pollinators visit American Beautyberry?
- Butterflies are among the primary pollinators that visit American Beautyberry flowers, along with various bees and other beneficial insects.
- What growing conditions does American Beautyberry prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates full sun to partial shade and performs well in low to moderate moisture conditions, making it suitable for various landscape situations.
- Is American Beautyberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Beautyberry as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Beautyberry HOA-friendly?
- American Beautyberry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Beautyberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.