Callicarpa dichotoma Cardinal

The Callicarpa dichotoma Cardinal is a magnificent cultivar derived from a small bush sometimes called a candy tree or bush because of its small round berries grouped in violet clusters. 'Cardinal' has the same imposing and decorative fruiting, enhanced by its autumn foliage that takes on beautiful shades of pink and mauve. 

The Cardinal Callicarpa is a recent horticultural creation derived from the Callicarpa dichotoma, native to Chinese mid-mountain forests. This deciduous bush is traditionally classified as part of the Verbenaceae family, and has now been transferred to the Lamiaceae family, alongside Salvia and Mint. With an upright and bushy habit, 'Cardinal' does not exceed 1.50 m (4 ft 11 in) in height and 1 m (3 ft 4 in) in width at maturity. It produces, in June-July, on the current year's branches, numerous small pale pink flowers with yellow stamens grouped in small clusters. This flowering is followed in September-October by the formation of as many berries, 3.5 to 4 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in) in diameter, of a light and shiny violet, grouped in clusters along the stems. They often remain until the heart of winter. The foliage is composed of entire, ovate-elliptical, veined leaves, with an acidic green colour. They gradually turn pale yellow, pink, and mauve before falling in autumn.

Place the Callicarpa 'Cardinal' in a strategic location to enjoy its colours and its berries that shine in autumn. It is advisable to plant Callicarpa in groups of three to improve pollination and therefore fruit formation. This very hardy and accommodating bush, which requires very little maintenance, looks stunning when highlighted by a carpet of silver baskets or cyclamen. Its autumn foliage will go well with those of the Compact Winged Euonymus or the Abelia Caramel Charm. To accompany it, you can choose other shrubs with decorative berries such as symphorines, a small strawberry tree 'Compacta', a Mahonia, Holly, or Franchet Cotoneaster.