Black Chokeberry

Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a native, deciduous shrub celebrated for its four-season appeal and remarkable toughness. It typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub, reaching a height and spread of about 3 to 6 feet. In spring, it bursts forth with clusters of delicate, five-petaled white flowers that attract pollinators. These are followed by glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop throughout the summer. The shrub’s main ornamental feature arrives in late summer and fall when it produces abundant clusters of shiny, purplish-black berries. While edible and high in antioxidants, the berries are quite astringent, which is where the common name “chokeberry” comes from. The show continues with a spectacular display of fall foliage, which turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and burgundy.

In the landscape, Black Chokeberry offers numerous benefits. Its adaptability to a wide range of soil conditions—from wet, boggy areas to dry, sandy soils—makes it an excellent choice for difficult sites, including rain gardens and areas prone to erosion. The shrub is low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain a tidy shape.  Its suckering habit can create a dense, naturalized hedge or mass planting, which provides excellent cover and nesting habitat for birds and other wildlife. The persistent berries offer a valuable winter food source for birds, adding winter interest to the garden. Overall, Black Chokeberry is a versatile and beautiful plant that provides continuous ornamental value and supports local ecosystems.