This past spring I planted an American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) in my yard. This native species is a boon to wildlife; the thick shrubbery provides protection from predators, the tiny flowers are a nectar source for pollinators, and the magenta fruits are favored by birds.

This afternoon my driveway provided me with evidence of the latter. It’s such a pretty color, makes me wonder if I could use the berries as a dye.