Aronia
Black Chokeberry is an exceptionally hardy native shrub prized for its remarkable antioxidant-rich berries and striking ornamental qualities. This multi-stemmed deciduous plant reaches 3-8 feet tall with a slowly spreading habit, thriving in USDA Zones 3-8 and tolerating temperatures down to -40°F.
Glossy dark green leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and purple in fall, while clusters of white-pink spring flowers yield abundant glossy black-purple berries by late summer. Though intensely astringent when eaten fresh, the berries contain antioxidant levels five times higher than blueberries and make exceptional jams, jellies, wines, and juices. Self-fertile plants produce 2+ pounds per bush starting in their second or third year, requiring minimal care while delivering superfruit harvests.
Native to eastern North America and long cultivated across Eastern Europe and Russia, aronia is an outstanding choice for permaculture designs, edible hedgerows, and low-maintenance productive landscapes.
Aronia
Black Chokeberry is an exceptionally hardy native shrub prized for its remarkable antioxidant-rich berries and striking ornamental qualities. This multi-stemmed deciduous plant reaches 3-8 feet tall with a slowly spreading habit, thriving in USDA Zones 3-8 and tolerating temperatures down to -40°F.
Glossy dark green leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and purple in fall, while clusters of white-pink spring flowers yield abundant glossy black-purple berries by late summer. Though intensely astringent when eaten fresh, the berries contain antioxidant levels five times higher than blueberries and make exceptional jams, jellies, wines, and juices. Self-fertile plants produce 2+ pounds per bush starting in their second or third year, requiring minimal care while delivering superfruit harvests.
Native to eastern North America and long cultivated across Eastern Europe and Russia, aronia is an outstanding choice for permaculture designs, edible hedgerows, and low-maintenance productive landscapes.
