Black Chokeberry

Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a North American deciduous shrub. From its species name, melanocarpa, it bears black fruits and features white flowers and red fall foliage. It is a thorny shrub with a wide tolerance to several soil densities, textures, moisture conditions, and pH levels. It can be planted in hardiness zones 3-8 and grows 3-6 feet tall at maturity. And spreads to a width of 6 – 10 feet. It spreads to form a mound shape. This shrub thrives nicely in wet and dry locations where the soil is acidic or alkaline. It thrives well in areas whose soil texture is sandy, loam, or clay. It also does well in soil with a pH of 5.1 – 6.5 but tolerates higher values. The shrub can be planted in either partial shade or full sun. Its growth speed can be described as slow to fast, depending on the prevailing environmental factors.

The Black Chokeberry's Appearance

The Black Chokeberry's leaves emerge in a medium green color and measure 1 -3". In early spring, the shrub has a showy display of white flowers in clusters referred to as corymbs. As the season advances, the leaves change to a deep and glossy green, which brightens the shrub and increases its appeal during the summer's dog days. From mid to the end of summer, the berries start developing, and within two weeks, the branches are overwhelmed by the fruit clusters. This makes the shrub acquire a purplish black appearance, and the 1/3 – ½ inch berries continue developing until January. At this time, they are usually distasteful to birds.

Landscaping With Black Chokeberry 

If you pay careful attention, the Black Chokeberry bush can be a great addition to your landscape gardens. The shrub can be grown to attract bees and birds and act as a windbreaker.