Callicarpa japonica (Japanese beautyberry, murasaki shikibu)

The Japanese beautyberry is a deciduous shrub in the Lamiaceae, or mint, family with a graceful appearance that changes color with the seasons.

This plant produces tiny, pale pink flowers in June and bears neat, beautiful purple berries that have been compared to Murasaki Sikibu, the 11th-12th century author of “The Tale of Genji.” (Murasaki means “purple” in Japanese).

- Tips for growing Japanese beautyberry 

The Japaense beautyberry prefers full sun. However, it is important to choose a semi-shady or shady spot to avoid strong sunlight, especially in the hot months.

A well-drained soil with good water retention is suitable for the plant.  Add humus or potting soil to improve the quality of the soil.  Be sure to water as needed before the soil dries out.

Applying a sufficient amount of fertilizer when the plant is growing will encourage it to flower and bear fruit.

Once the plant has flowered, cut back the old stems and branches, to help the plant form new buds. Also remove unwanted leaves, to keep the plant looking its best.

The Japanese beautyberry bears green berries, 5-6mm in diameter,  in fall after producing many pale purple flowers along the leaf axils. The berries turn dark purple while the leaves are still on the plant, and remain after the leaves have fallen, making it an excellent fruit-bearing plant.

The genus name “Callicarpa,” which means “beautiful fruit” in Greek, is said to derive from the plant’s beautiful berries.