Issai Beautyberry

Callicarpa dichotoma ‘Issai’ is a compact, deciduous beautyberry with pale pink summer flowers and glossy purple berries in autumn. Its arching stems and early, heavy fruiting make it a useful ornamental shrub in informal borders and mixed shrub plantings. ## Form and fruit The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/167963/callicarpa-dichotoma-issai/details) describes a shrub about 1–1.5 m high and wide, with upright-to-arching stems, narrow green leaves, summer flowers, and autumn berries. It notes that this cultivar fruits well from a young age. The University of Illinois Extension lists ‘Issai’ among the cultivars of Purple Beautyberry and describes the species' small pink flowers, violet-purple berries, and yellow or purplish fall color. For more dependable fruit set, RHS recommends growing at least two plants. ## Siting Grow in full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Sun supports heavier flowering and fruiting, while some shade is tolerated. Use it as a specimen or in an informal shrub border where arching branches and seasonal fruit can be seen. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and during extended dry periods. Remove damaged or crowded stems in late winter before the new season's growth; beautyberries flower on new wood. Leave some berries for autumn display before pruning.