Small, light pink flowers bloom on the axils of this native shrub. As the blooms are pollinated and mature, they give way to the real attraction: clusters of ¼” purple fruits. The berries surround the stems in late summer through early fall.
Trail/Garden Location:
Dogwood Trail, East Terrace, Orchard Trail
Garden Uses:
American Beautyberry is used as a mass planting in most locations on our site. Small groupings in a home garden can have a large impact, as the purple berries pair well with the yellow, red and orange fall color of other trees and shrubs. It can also be used in mixed plantings in a fall garden paired with native perennials such as Arkansas Amsonia and New England Asters. American Beautyberry prefers part sun to sun in moist, well-drained soil.
Wildlife Benefits:
The flowers attract several species of butterflies and other pollinators. The purple berries provide late season food, although birds do not seem to be particularly fond of them.
Leaf Type:
The light green, serrated leaves are fragrant when crushed and paired with crushed berries and rubbed on the skin, can be used as a natural insect repellent. They turn a light yellow in fall.
