Chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa, Aronia arbutifolia

Cultivars: 'Iroquois Beauty', 'Viking', 'Autumn Magic'

Chokeberry is a versatile deciduous shrub known for its spring flowers, glossy foliage, and colorful fall display. In spring, clusters of white flowers appear, followed by small berries that persist into fall and attract wildlife. The foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange in autumn, making it a strong multi-season plant for residential landscapes. It works well in mixed shrub borders, naturalized plantings, and rain gardens due to its adaptability and ornamental value.

Plant Characteristics
Genus
Aronia
Species
Aronia melanocarpa, Aronia arbutifolia
Cultivar
‘Iroquois Beauty’, ‘Viking’, ‘Autumn Magic’
Family
Rosaceae
Plant Characteristics
Fall Color
Flowering
Foliage Interest
Fruit-Bearing
Sun-Loving
Plant Color
Deep green
Flower Color
White
Bloom Time
Late Spring - Early Summer
Fall Color
Orange, red
Height
1-8'
Width
2-6'
Water Use
Low-medium
Care Instructions

Chokeberry performs best in full sun to partial sun and tolerates a range of soils. It has medium water needs and benefits from consistent moisture during establishment, though it becomes moderately drought tolerant once mature. Pruning can be done in early spring to remove older stems and encourage new growth. Winter protection is not necessary in Rocky Mountain climates. It is a durable, low-maintenance shrub for multi-season interest.