Q: This question is a shot in the dark concerning a bushy plant we saw in Alton, Illinois, this past September. The cluster berries are striking in their vibrant color. No one we spoke with including park personnel knew what the plant was called. It was in a landscaped area, and planted in a manner that would suggest a landscape architect was involved. Any guess?
A:Β The plant is American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana). It is native to the southeastern U.S. from Texas to Virginia and is easily grown in that area. I had it growing in my front yard in Virginia and it really tied the landscape together. It has also been found in the Caribbean and northern Mexico as it adapts to a wide range of soil pH. It is a striking plant and there is a variety called βlacteaβ with white berries that is sold by nurseries although it canβt compare to the purple in my opinion.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions and photos may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
