Aronia melanocarpa 'McKenzie'

Black Chokeberry

Tips for Homeowners:

Some pruning and removal of suckers might be necessary to maintain a clean habit in a more tame landscape, but if naturalizing this shrub will readily colonize.

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This 4-season shrub is a perfect choice for the home landscape for its beauty, but also for its natural resistance to insects and disease. In fact, it attracts birds and beneficial insects to the garden to help protect other plants in the landscape.

  • Persistent black fruit into winter
  • Vibrant fall color
  • Very adaptable

Ideal for massing in shrub borders or for naturalizing in open woodland gardens.

Height: 5-10 ft
Spread: 4-6 ft
Zone: 3-8
Color: White

Interesting Notes about Black Chokeberry:

It was believed that birds do not like the berries; they just don't like them until after they have been frosted multiple times.  Humans can eat the fruit only if cooked first, otherwise bitter fruit causes choking, but the fruit is very healthy and contain antioxidants. If the berries manage to stay on the shrub they will last into winter for a beautiful display.  For the best fruit production, grow in as much sun as possible, but this shrub will tolerate partial shade.


Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes:

  • Mass Planting
  • Edible
  • Great Foliage
  • Winter Interest
  • Fast Growing
  • Naturalizing
  • Attractive fruit
  • Border or Bed
  • Fall Color
  • Specimen

Foliage Color:

  • Red
  • Green

Exposure:

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Sun

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Pollinators
  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Attracts Songbirds

Critter Resistance:

  • Deer Resistant

Habit:

  • Upright

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Spring

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Fall

Soil Moisture:

  • Average Water
  • Moist, Well-Drained