Callicarpa americana

Callicarpa americana is native shrub found throughout the southeast, although less common in the mountains. It needs to be in a sunny spot, but grows in a wide range of well-drained soils. This plant is well known for its bright purple berries, which mature in late summer and feed songbirds and small mammals. The small white flowers that bloom earlier in the year are popular among pollinators. The crushed leaves emit a unique smell that is said to help repel mosquitos. Callicarpa americana works well for restoration projects, or for use as a showy native in a rain garden.