Callicarpas are a large genus of more than 200 species, commonly called Beautyberry or Beauty Berry. Most are upright-growing shrubs that produce small white to pinkish flowers in the summer that are followed by clusters of 5 to 10 cm berries in the Fall. Pale pink to lavender blooms attract pollinators, and berries are a food source for birds and other foragers.
Callicarpa dichotoma (commonly called Japanese Beautyberry is native to Asia. 'Issia' is a cultivar selected for its compact growth, earlier fruiting, and poor germination rate of scattered seed. It matures as a compact, rounded shrub about 4 feet tall. Japanese Beautyberry is easy to grow, requires little maintenance, has few pest problems, and is generally not disturbed by deer.
The showy Fall display of bluish purple to violet berries typically begins in late September. Plants will begin producing berries when young (which is the loosely translated meaning of the word 'Issia'). The plant is deciduous (leaves drop off in the winter). Berries will remain on the bare branches for a short time, but typically begin to drop off soon after the plant enters winter dormancy. Berried branches may be used in cut flower arrangements.
Care: When mature, plant in fertile, well-draining soil or potting media in a full sun to very light shade area. Water as needed to maintain consistent soil moisture. Feed a good quality, slow-release, bloom-boosting fertilizer with the initial planting and annually in spring thereafter. Beautyberries bloom and set berries on new growth, so prune in the early spring to shape and limit size. 'Issai' is a selected cultivar, typically propagated from cuttings, and does not easily germinate from seed. This gives it a very low invasive potential. However, to eliminate any concern, the best practice is to prune and discard spent berries.
Indoor Growing: As a slow, moderately cold-hardy plant, the Banana Shrub can be grown indoors for a time. However, it requires the full spectrum of light for 4 to 6 hours daily and a period of winter chilling during dormancy to produce flowers and berries, so growing outdoors and then bringing inside to display berries is likely a better strategy.
Climate: Japanese Beautyberry is a cold-tolerant plant recommended for growing outdoors in Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9A.
Condition: This product is one (1) young, starter-sized plant intended for a gardener to grow to its mature size. You may expect a starter-size plant to be well-rooted, have a root zone of approximately 4 inches in diameter, be a minimum of about 6 to 8 inches tall, and have no blooms or buds on arrival. It may be shipped with or without a pot, as appropriate.
Plants are guaranteed to arrive in healthy, viable condition. This warranty is contingent upon the Seller receiving prompt notification of any issues or concerns with the plant\'s condition or appearance.
This notification must be received within 24 hours of delivery and include in-focus photos that clearly show the plant issue, shipping box, and address label. No other additional, extended, or long-term warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Japanese Beauty Berry or Beautyberry
- Bloom Form: Cyme
- Mature Size: 2 to 5 feet
- Fragrance: None
- Suggested Uses: Border, Background, Wildlife Habitat, Pollinator
- House Plant Adapative: Not Recommended
- Country of Origin: US
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens TM
- Climate: Moist continental mid-latitude
- Color: White Flowers Bluish Purple Berry
- Special Features: Showy berries, attractive to pollinators and birds
- Species: Callicarpa Dichotoma
- Sunlight: Full sun to part shade
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
- Watering: Moderate
