Feature Foliage

Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa)

An excellent choice for difficult situations, where more traditional plants might be sketchy. It tolerates low areas with wet conditions near drainage features such as swales, ditches, or basins. Best used in naturalizing, where the sucker growth need not be restrained.

Its unfortunate name refers to the tart, acidic taste of the abundant black berries produced for fall feeding of birds. They don’t seem to mind the astringent berries. And with a lot of sugar, even humans can make tasty jams and jellies.

Known for its dramatic and gorgeous fall colors; rich purples and bright reds.
 
Size: Grows 3’ to 6’ high and 3’ to 6’ wide, depending on hospitality of the site
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Conditions: Climate zones 3 to 8. Easily grown in average soils, with a wide range of soil tolerance between dry and wet; or acidic and alkaline, clay or loamy. Prefers full sun and will fruit better when given lots of sunshine.