Aronia sp. – Chokeberries

There are three species of Aronia, all native to Eastern North America, red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia), black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa), and purple chokeberry (Aronia prunifolia), which may be a hybrid of the first two–there seems to be some debate. It grows 3-8 feet tall, often spreads through suckering as well as seed, and is tolerant of many different types of soil and moisture. The leaves and fruit are valuable wildlife food and the plant is host to six species of caterpillars. The USDA plants profile native range map had the same for Aronia prunifolia and Aronia melanocarpa.

Aronia berries are often cultivated for food. Though the berries can be eaten fresh, and are very healthy (packed with antioxidants), they may be somewhat astringent and unpalatable to some. Thus, they are commonly turned into jams, wine, ice cream, tea, and many other foods in need of flavor. Plant them as both an ornamental and a food source to share with the wildlife.


Map Source:
USDA Plant Profiles

Photo Sources:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30640080
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1065889