Callicarpa dichotoma ‘Early Amethyst’, commonly sold as American Beautyberry, is a deciduous shrub valued for its compact habit and early, abundant berry production. This cultivar typically grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, forming a neat, rounded shrub that fits well into smaller landscapes and mixed shrub borders.

In summer, small, pale flowers appear along the stems and are followed by clusters of bright purple berries that develop earlier than many other beautyberry varieties. The berries line the stems closely, creating a dense ornamental display that stands out in late summer and fall. Its tidy growth habit makes it more compact and refined than larger beautyberry types.

Early Amethyst performs best in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. It is easy to grow and performs reliably with minimal maintenance, making it a good option for gardeners looking for seasonal color and ornamental fruit in a manageable shrub size.

Why choose Early Amethyst Beautyberry

Early fruiting: Produces berries earlier in the season
Compact size: Fits well in smaller gardens and borders
Ornamental fruit: Bright purple berries create strong visual impact

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil needs: Prefers well-drained soils; adaptable once established
Maintenance: Low—prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is desired

Designs for your garden

Mixed shrub borders: Adds seasonal color and texture
Small landscapes: Compact habit works in tighter spaces
Accent plantings: Berries provide focal interest

Ecological benefits

Seasonal wildlife interest: Fruits may be used by birds
Low-input shrub: Performs well with minimal care
Ornamental value: Adds late-season color and structure

Looking for Native Alternatives?

Callicarpa americana – American Beautyberry: American Beautyberry is a native shrub that produces vivid purple berries and provides strong wildlife value. It offers similar ornamental interest with greater ecological benefits.

Ilex verticillata Winter Red® – Winterberry: Winter Red® Winterberry is a native deciduous holly known for its heavy red berry production in fall and winter. It provides strong seasonal color and important food for birds.

Viburnum dentatum – Arrowwood Viburnum: Arrowwood Viburnum is a native shrub that produces blue-black berries and supports a wide range of wildlife. It works well as a naturalistic alternative in mixed shrub borders.

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.