Aronia melanocarpa Black Chokeberry

Aronia malanocarpa, commonly known as Black Chokeberry, is a member of the Rose family and native to the Great Lakes and Northeast regions of the U.S.  Not to be confused with Chokecherries, Black Chokeberries reach a height of 4 to 6 feet and a width of 5 to 6 feet, hardy to Zone 3.  Naturally occurring as an understory plant in forests, they tolerate part shade to full sun, even here in Colorado.  They have a suckering habit in moist soils and are useful in stabilizing soils with their fibrous root systems.  Black Chokeberries are adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions, including wet, sandy soils, drought, salt and pollution.  Highly alkaline soils may cause chlorosis.

Small white flowers bloom in terminal clusters in late spring, followed by small black fruits.  Summer foliage is a deep glossy green turning to a radiant wine red fall color.  The berries do attract wildlife, although many birds find the berries too astringent during the summer and will eat them only in the late fall and winter.  Aronia berries (sounds better than Chokeberry) are edible but bitter.  They can be used for jams, jellies, juice, wine, teas, and as a natural coloring.  The fruits also have medicinal properties, containing high levels of vitamins, antioxidants and polyphenols.

Durango Nursery carries Aronia melanocarpa in #5 containers and as a 3’-4’ B&B shrub in a pot.  Please come by the nursery to see the brilliant fall color or call us with any questions at 970-259-8800.