Not a male female situation. I have heard that they bear better if there is more than one plant. I have three of the same clone--'Issai'--and they fruit heavily.

Agreed. I have two and they fruit heavily. In fact, the birds have spread the seed to the backyard! I just found one back there today!

so neither of you have a male beautiberry bush nearby? I thought it was necessary for fruit on the female plant. thanks

I repeat, it is not a male/female situation. Callicarpa does not have male and female plants.