Callicarpa dichotoma Issai

The Callicarpa dichotoma Issai, also known as the candy tree or bush, is a newer variety of Callicarpa. It's particularly interesting due to its small size, which makes it ideal for pot cultivation and decoration on terraces, especially for those with limited space. The plant features small round berries that are grouped in colourful clusters. Its vibrant fruiting in a light purple colour is most appreciated during autumn and winter, where it stands out on the pale gold autumn foliage. These berries persist on the branches, sometimes until December. For best results, plant it in ordinary soil, even limestone, and ensure it's not too dry in summer.

Callicarpa Issai is a recent horticultural creation, derived from Callicarpa dichotoma, native to Chinese mid-mountain forests. This deciduous bush was traditionally classified as part of the Verbenaceae family, but is now considered a Lamiaceae, alongside Salvia and Mint. A small upright and bushy shrub, 'Issai' does not exceed 1.50 m (4 ft 11 in) in height and 90 cm (35.4 in) in width at maturity. In June-July, it produces up to 40 small pale pink flowers with yellow stamens on the current year's branches. This flowering is followed in September-October by the formation of berries, 3.5 to 4 mm in diameter, with a light and shiny purple colour, grouped in clusters along the stems. They often remain until the heart of winter. The foliage consists of entire, ovate-elliptical leaves, veined with purple, becoming more purple-green in late summer when the fruits form, then turning pale yellow in autumn.

For those who appreciate the beauty of nature, planting Callicarpa 'Issai' in a prominent location is a must. This shrub is adorned with beautiful violet berries that shine in autumn, making it a delight. To improve pollination and fruit formation, planting Callicarpa in groups of three is recommended. A carpet of Stachys Byzantina or Silver Basket can complement this hardy and low-maintenance shrub. Additionally, its autumn foliage can be paired with that of Lysimachia Clethroides or golden Hostas, such as 'Daybreak' and 'On Stage'.To accompany it, you can choose other shrubs with decorative berries such as symphorines, a small 'Compacta' strawberry tree, Mahonia, Holly, Cotoneaster franchetii.