Callicarpa bodinieri, commonly known as Bodinier’s Beautyberry, is a deciduous shrub native to open woodlands and forest edges in China and southeast Asia. It typically grows to 3 m (10 ft) tall and 2.5 m (8 ft) wide. This shrub has an upright form with long, arching branches. The leaves are dark green, turning to a striking red or purple in autumn, adding seasonal interest. From June to August, small, lilac flowers bloom in the leaf axils, followed by the plant’s most notable feature: vibrant purple berries that form tight clusters and persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for birds.

Bodinier’s Beautyberry is valued for its ornamental berries, which are a highlight in the autumn garden. It is used for border planting, as a specimen plant, or for naturalizing in informal areas. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil, but it is adaptable to various soil types. While it requires medium water, once established, it can tolerate some drought. To encourage prolific berry production, plant in groups to facilitate cross-pollination. Pruning in late winter can help maintain its shape and promote vigorous growth.CC BY-SA 4.0