Also known as Aronia (swedish) · Aroniamarja · Aronija (srpski)
Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its tart, dark berries and vibrant fall color.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Best fruiting and flower production occurs in full sun. Tolerates partial shade, but may have fewer blooms and berries.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, especially when establishing. Water deeply during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Adaptable
50% intensity
Cold hardy
25% intensity
Very cold-hardy, suitable for zones 3-8. Can withstand significant winter frosts and summer heat.
Light feeder
25% intensity
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Black chokeberry prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Water deeply during dry spells, especially when young. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruit production. The best time is late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Thin out older, less productive stems to the ground to rejuvenate the plant and improve air circulation.
Chokeberries can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in early summer or by root cuttings. They also readily self-seed or can be propagated by suckers.
Division of established clumps in early spring or fall is another effective method for increasing plants.
Container-grown chokeberries may require repotting every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Repot in early spring before new growth emerges or in the fall after the leaves have dropped.
Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Aronia |
| Species | Aronia melanocarpa |
Similar in genus Aronia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
