Contents
Description
Callicarpa Dichotoma, commonly known as beautyberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide and is native to Asia. The plant produces clusters of small, purple berries that grow along the stem, making it an attractive addition to any garden. Its leaves are green and can turn yellow in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Callicarpa |
Appearance
The beautyberry shrub has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are large and glossy, and the plant produces clusters of small, purple berries that grow along the stem. The berries are not only beautiful but also edible, although they are not commonly used for culinary purposes. In the fall, the plant’s leaves can turn yellow, adding to its beauty.
Care Guide
Callicarpa Dichotoma is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful shrub:
- Water: Beautyberry prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth and fruit production.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Beautyberry prefers full sun to partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: Beautyberry is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
While beautyberry is generally a healthy plant, it can be susceptible to some common pests and diseases. Here are some to watch out for:
- Japanese Beetles: These beetles can defoliate the plant if left unchecked. Handpick them off the plant or use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to become weak and stunted. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. To prevent it, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Callicarpa Dichotoma is native to Asia and can be found growing in the wild in China, Japan, and Korea. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can be found growing in forest edges, thickets, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Are beautyberry berries edible?
A: Yes, beautyberry berries are edible, but they are not commonly used for culinary purposes.
Q: How often should I water my beautyberry shrub?
A: Water your beautyberry deeply once a week, or more often during periods of drought.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for beautyberry?
A: Beautyberry is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: Can beautyberry grow in full sun?
A: Yes, beautyberry prefers full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Callicarpa Americana (American Beautyberry)
- Callicarpa Bodinieri (Bodinier’s Beautyberry)
- Callicarpa Japonica (Japanese Beautyberry)
- Callicarpa Kwangtungensis (Kwangtung Beautyberry)
References
- “Callicarpa dichotoma.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286931
- “Beautyberry.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/beautyberry/
- “Callicarpa dichotoma.” North Carolina State University Extension. plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/callicarpa-dichotoma/
