Aronia Seedling

Multi-stemmed deciduous shrub that is native to eastern North America (Newfoundland to Georgia, Minnesota to Ontario). Spreading habit, slowly suckering. Glossy dark green leaves turning vibrant orange-red-purple in fall.

White-pink flowers in clusters in May-June. Glossy black-purple berries ¼ inch diameter, ripen August-September. 18-24% sugar when ripe, very astringent/tart raw. Excellent for jams, jellies, wine, juice. Self-fertile. Highest known antioxidant levels of temperate fruits (5x cranberry/blueberry). Produces 2+ lbs per plant starting year 2-3.

Native North American species, introduced European gardens ~1700. Extensively cultivated Eastern Europe, Russia, Scandinavia 20th century.