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Gerald L. Klingaman
Verbenaceae
Callicarpa americana var. lactea
American Beautyberry
This is the naturally occurring white berried form of the normally violet purple berried American beautyberry. Native to southeastern America from Texas across to Maryland, this interesting wild shrub is similar to Asian beautyberry species but has a rougher, more informal look. Mature specimens are large, bushy and develop either a horizontal or upright habit. Native populations exist in open woods and thickets.
White American beautyberry has long arching stems lined with soft pale green leaves that are opposite to one another. The foliage turns muted yellow-green in fall. In midsummer, clusters of pale pink or white flowers appear at the base of the leaf stems. These are followed by berries that turn from green to milky white later in the season. Butterflies are attracted to the summer flowers and songbirds eat the fall fruits.
Full sun is preferred but partial shade tolerated--brighter light results in better fruit output and a fuller overall habit. Well-drained clay or sandy soils are suitable for growing this resilient shrub. Beautyberry should never be sheared or harshly pruned as this destroys its appealing arching habit. Plant this trouble free plant in informal, naturalistic garden settings.
12 - 1
6 - 11
3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Shrub
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
5'-6' / 1.5m - 1.8m
6'-7' / 1.8m - 2.1m
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
Southeastern United States
Acidic, Neutral
Well Drained
Clay, Loam, Sand
Medium
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
Arching/Fountain-shaped
Spring, Summer, Fall
Showy
White, Lavender
White, Ivory
Light Green
Yellow Green
Sandy Brown, Gray
Yes
No
Single
Coarse
Matte
Smooth
Foundation, Mixed Border, Screening / Wind Break
Birds, Butterflies
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