American Beautyberry, Beautyberry, French Mulberry, American Beautyberry

Callicarpa americana

Physical Characteristics

Callicarpa americana is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Florida to Texas and north to Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[105, 177]. Juicy, sweet, fleshy, slightly aromatic[123]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Dysentery Malaria A decoction of the root bark has been used as a diuretic[257]. The leaves are a cure for dropsy[61]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of dysentery and stomach aches[222, 257]. A tea made from the roots and berries is used in the treatment of colic[222, 257]. Some native North American Indian tribes used the leaves and roots in sweat baths for the treatment of malaria, rheumatism and fevers[222, 257].

Known Hazards

None known