Beautyberry Look Alikes . You will die if you eat this common weed! American beautyberry berries become edible upon reaching full ripeness which usually occurs in late summer to early fall. If you want a lowmaintenance plant with yearround color, look no from www.pinterest.com The american beautyberry may not taste good fresh off the bush, but it makes a lovely, tasty jelly. The signature white flowers, and large clusters of dark purple fruits, make it easily identifiable as a beautiful yard accent. Are there any beautyberry look alikes?