The American Beauty Berry (Callicarpa americana) is a very accurately named shrub. While its tiny flowers grow in attractive clusters, the fruit is stunning. The clusters of shiny purple berries stand out brilliantly from its foliage. While not a food source for humans, beauty berry had been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. Birds enjoy them in fruit and seed. Deer prefer the leaves. 

American Beauty Berry

To see the American Beauty Berry in their best color, stroll to the Park's Visitor Center and the Native Plant Arboretum at York River State Park. One will find these gorgeous berries by taking a walk along the twisted path to the canoe & kayak launch other plants, such as the Groundsel Tree and Wax Myrtle, are also found. 

While you are going to the launch area, why not ret a boat and explore the waters? Or, you may opt to enjoy the view of the Taskinas Creek/York River confluence from the gazebo. Come before the end of the month and you may catch a glimpse of the Osprey before they migrate to their winter hang outs in the tropics.

Fall is a great time to paddle

There are still plenty of things to do at York River in September! 

• Saturday, September 15 is Estuaries Day with exhibitors and programs celebrating the brackish water ecosystems.
• Saturday, September 22 is the Outdoor Skills Sampler with the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries (PDF) and the Amber Nease Outdoor Education Foundation.
• Saturday, September 29 we will observe National Public Lands Day with a guided hike and paddle on Taskinas Creek and volunteer opportunities.
• Every Sunday at 4 p.m. Pick Your Paddle is offered! 

Enjoy Beauty Berries and comfortable temperatures at York River State Park

Directions to York River State Park: From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.