American Beautyberry

Leaf type: The light-green, serrated leaves are fragrant when crushed. Paired with crushed berries and rubbed on the skin, leaves can be used as a natural insect repellent. They turn a light yellow in fall.

Bloom description: 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 1/4 in. purple fruits. The berries surround the stems in late summer through early fall.

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.