Our plant of the week is the American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana), a native favorite known for its vibrant clusters of purple berries.
Those bright berries aren’t just beautiful! They provide an important source of high-energy food for more than 40 species of songbirds and migrating wildlife during the fall and winter.
Did you know? Beautyberry has a pretty interesting history, too. Farmers once crushed the leaves and placed them under horse and mule harnesses to help repel mosquitoes and other insects.
The berries can also be cooked and sweetened to make jellies, sauces, and even wine!
Would you add American Beautyberry to your landscape?