Callicarpa dichotoma 'Issai'

Common name: Beauty Berry 'Issai'

Description: This spectacular deciduous shrub is renowned for one of the most striking autumn and winter berry displays in the plant kingdom. Throughout summer, small pink flowers appear along the arching stems, attracting pollinators, but the real spectacle begins in autumn when extraordinary clusters of metallic violet-purple berries encircle the stems in dense rings. The berries have an almost iridescent quality, appearing to glow with an unreal, jewel-like brilliance that is quite unlike any other fruiting shrub. This compact cultivar is particularly free-fruiting and will produce berries reliably even as a young plant. The berries persist well into winter, often remaining attractive even after leaf fall, creating a stunning focal point when little else offers colour. The graceful arching habit and fine-textured foliage provide a pleasing backdrop during the growing season before taking on soft yellow tones in autumn.

Other benefits: spectacular autumn berries, compact habit, graceful arching form, autumn foliage colour, excellent for cutting, free-fruiting

Wildlife attraction: bees, pollinators, birds (berries)

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1.2m x 1.2m

Position: full sun to partial shade; berries colour best in good light

Soil pH: adaptable to most soils; performs well in neutral to slightly acidic conditions

Moisture: moderate watering required; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil; benefits from mulching

Winter hardiness: very cold hardy to -20°C