Family: Verbenaceae
Callicarpa japonica, commonly known as Japanese Beautyberry, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, Korea, and surrounding areas of eastern Asia. It is valued in ornamental landscaping for its delicate pale flowers and, most notably, its vibrant clusters of small, metallic purple berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for birds. This adaptable plant thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, and is often used in gardens and landscapes for its hardiness, attractive fall color, and low-maintenance nature. It is not known to have significant edible, medicinal, or commercial uses beyond its horticultural appeal.
While not currently considered a highly aggressive invader, Japanese Beautyberry does pose some ecological risks that merit caution. It has escaped cultivation and become naturalized in parts of the southeastern United States, such as North Carolina. Its bird-dispersed seeds allow it to spread into nearby natural areas, and it can hybridize with related native species. Although it doesn’t typically form dense thickets, its ability to tolerate various soils and climates, combined with its reproductive traits, means it could potentially become a problem in sensitive habitats if left unchecked. For these reasons, it should be monitored and managed responsibly where planted outside its native range.
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized in non-native regions (e.g., NC, USA).
- Bird-dispersed seeds; can survive gut passage.
- Hybridizes naturally with related species.
- Tolerates a wide soil and climate range.
- Resprouts after pruning or damage.
- Related species (C. americana) is weedy.
Low Risk Traits:
- Not reported as agricultural or environmental weed.
- Does not form thickets or smother vegetation.
- No wind dispersal; not a contaminant.
- Low prolific seed production (<1000/m²).
- No persistent seed bank known.
- Not toxic; unpalatable to deer.
- Resistant to pests and diseases.
- Not shade-tolerant.
