caring for a beautyberry before planting

Question

I received a beautyberry bush for Christmas. I live in PA. What should I do with it until I plant it in the spring or can I plant it now?

Answer 1

The Beautyberry shrub is hardy in zones 7 thru 10.
Since most of the state of PA is zones 6 with the exception of the Philadelphia, this shrub will be difficult for you to plant in the ground and keep as a perennial.
If this is a potted plant you will need to keep indoors until spring when the danger of frost has passed.
If you received a bare root plant, I would pot it now and give the plant a start so you can move outdoors in the spring.
My research shows that the Beautyberry can be grown in a pot with good success. You will have to keep the shrub pruned to keep the size manageable since you will have to move indoors each year when the temperatures drop.

Here are some links with more information.

http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/landscape/shrubs/hgic1086.html
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/beautyberry-shrub/american-beautyberry-shrubs.htm