Beauty Berry (Callicarpa bodinieri var.giraldii ‘Profusion’) may be an Autumn shrub, but there’s very little mellow fruitfulness about it. In fact, ‘mellow’ is entirely the wrong adjective to use when discussing Beauty Berries. Their fruits aren’t subtle: they’re the horticultural equivalent of Beyonce Knowles, and I love them for it. And not wanting to be outdone, the leaves turn a regal golden-purple too.

This species is pretty obliging and hardy, even though it looks rather demanding and fragile. It is happy in sun or dappled shade, doesn’t grow too enormous, and is fairly pest and disease-free. It looks stunning at the back of a mixed border, or among other shrubs. For the best display of fruits, grow a couple together, and hope for a long hot summer.

Vital stats:
Location:
Well-drained soil
Light:
Full sun or dappled shade
When to plant:
Autumn or Spring
What can I expect from this shrub?
Height: 10ft
Spread: 8ft
Flowers: July
Berries: autumn