Purpose
The goal of this multi-year Callicarpa trial is to identify strong-performing alternatives to Callicarpa dichotoma and its cultivars, which have shown a tendency to naturalize and become problematic in garden settings. This trial also seeks to explore effective propagation methods—both by seed and softwood cuttings—to determine which species and cultivars might be viable candidates for broader use and promotion in the green industry.
Species and Cultivars
A diverse selection of Callicarpa species and cultivars has been planted to assess ornamental qualities, propagation potential, and landscape performance:
- Callicarpa americana – American Beautyberry
- Callicarpa americana ‘Welch’s Pink’ – Pink American Beautyberry
- Callicarpa americana var. lactea – White American Beautyberry
- Callicarpa americana ‘Sugarloaf Pink’ – Pink American Beautyberry
- Callicarpa americana ‘Berries and Cream’ – Variegated American Beautyberry
- Callicarpa acuminata – Mexican Beautyberry
- Callicarpa rubella – Red Beautyberry
- Callicarpa oshimensis – Ryukyu Beautyberry
Design
Plants are spaced on 6-foot centers and will be monitored over a three-year period, with the potential for extension as needed. Each taxon will begin with two specimens, although some may start with only one during the first year while propagation efforts are underway. At the end of the 2025 season, we will update this page with photos and data covering fruit set, overall vigor, foliage condition, and propagation success. In the meantime, you are welcome to view the plants yourself—located at the back of our Trial Garden along the fence.