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Description
Callicarpa, also known as Beautyberry, is a genus of shrubs that are native to Asia and the Americas. The plant is highly valued for its brightly colored berries, which come in shades of purple, pink, and white. Callicarpa is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color to their landscape, and it is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Callicarpa |
Appearance
Callicarpa is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are a dark green color and are slightly serrated. The flowers are small and purple, and they bloom in the late summer and early fall. The berries are the most striking feature of the plant, and they are usually produced in large clusters. The berries are round and have a glossy finish, and they can remain on the plant well into the winter.
Care Guide
Callicarpa is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for growing Callicarpa:- Water: Callicarpa prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in the summer if necessary.- Soil: Callicarpa prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.- Sunlight: Callicarpa prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Callicarpa is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callicarpa is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect Callicarpa:- Japanese Beetles: These beetles can chew on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage. Use a pesticide to control them.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that can occur in poorly-drained soil. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Callicarpa is native to Asia and the Americas, and it can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and wetlands. It prefers moist but well-drained soil, and it can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Callicarpa?
A: Callicarpa prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: How tall can Callicarpa grow?
A: Callicarpa can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Callicarpa?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in the summer if necessary.
Q: Is Callicarpa hardy in all climates?
A: Callicarpa is hardy in zones 5-8, so it may not be suitable for all climates.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Viburnum- Ceanothus- Aronia- Cornus
References
– “Callicarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b596.- “Callicarpa.” Plant Database. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/callicarpa-linnaeus/.
