Chokeberries

Aronia has gotten a lot of press in recent years as a superfruit: it has wonderful medicinal qualities, works well in a range of culinary applications and is an important wildlife plant in the native landscape. Both red (A. arbutifolia) and black (A. melanocarpa) chokeberries are edible when cooked, but we emphasize the red for wildlife, while the black may be a better choice for medicine and food. Black chokeberries are commercially cultivated for their high levels of antioxidants and myriad health benefits. Both species are small rounded shrubs with blueberry-sized fruit and electric-red fall foliage.

Begins to bear fruit in its third year and increases to full yield around five years. Ripens in late July or early August. If not harvested, the berries will hang on the bushes until songbirds eat them in late winter. Will form colonies, especially when planted in partial shade. Not particularly picky about where it grows: adaptable to moist or dry areas, sun or partial shade. Native to eastern U.S. Self-fruitful.