Black Chokeberry - Aronia melanocarpa

Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a colorful deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. It grows naturally in swamps, bogs and low woodlands; however, it can be found in dry uplands as well. Its growth habit is often upright and rounded, reaching approximately 6 ft in height. The bright green leaves of this shrub are a rounded ovate shape with fine serration along the edges. In the autumn, the foliage transitions to a beautiful red color which contrasts with the black berries that persist throughout the season.

Plant Details - Black Chokeberry

Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)

Hardiness Zones: 3–8

Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 3 - 6 ft

Spread: 3 - 6 ft

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: Late spring

Flower Color: White

Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators (bees and butterflies), berries are a vital food source

The Black Chokeberry produces flower clusters in late spring in groups of 5 to 6. Each flower has a dainty appearance, consisting of 5 stark white petals and bright pink stamens. Once pollinated, clusters of berries form. While the fruit is quite astringent, it is edible and has a myriad of uses.

The common name ‘chokeberry’ pays homage to the berries’ astringent and tart taste that make you ‘choke’ when you eat them. The berries are extremely high in antioxidants and are usually sweetened to be made palatable. They are commonly used to make jams, or chutneys, and can even be used to make wine.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Black Chokeberry

It is low maintenance, easy to grow, and has no known serious pest or disease issues. It tolerates many different soil conditions, including soggy environments, and will grow in either full sun or part shade. Best fruit production will be achieved in full sun.

This plant spreads via sucker and can expand quickly. These suckers will need to be removed regularly if you desire for them to remain in a confined space. In a garden setting, it can be used in a mixed shrub border or in a woodland transition area.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Edible berries, colorful autumn transition, easy to grow

Plant this shrub in your garden to enjoy colorful autumn foliage and tart berries year after year. Shop for Black Chokeberry shrubs online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Under 10 Feet

Care

Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering. Prune yearly to maintain shape and clear dead or diseased wood. It’s generally pest-resistant, but watch for common garden pests and treat as needed. Fertilize in early spring.

Plant Reproduction

Black Chokeberry spreads via root suckers, forming dense thickets.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs

Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.

Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.

Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.

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