Black Aronia

Aronia melanocarpa 

Seeds per pack ~ 50

Packed for 2024

Aronia, commonly known as black chokeberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Here are some key features and details about Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa):

Description: Typically grows between 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) tall. Glossy, dark green leaves that turn vibrant red, orange, or purple in the fall. White to pale pink flowers bloom in clusters during the spring, usually in May.  Produces small, black or dark purple berries that ripen in late summer to early fall (August to September).

Habitat: Native Range includes Eastern North America, from Canada down to the northern United States.  Aronia prefers moist, well-drained soils and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. It is quite adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.

Uses: The berries are rich in antioxidants and can be used to make juices, jams, jellies, and wines. They have a tart and slightly bitter taste. They are also known for their high levels of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants, which are believed to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Many grow as an ornamental, planting in gardens and landscapes for its attractive flowers, foliage, and fruit.

Cultivation: Aronia can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division. It is a low maintenance plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. It is also drought-tolerant once established.  The leaves turn a brilliant spectrum of red in the fall. Can be planted in full sun or partial shade and tolerates a variety of soils.

Benefits: The berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife. Aronia shrubs are beneficial for erosion control due to their dense root systems and are also used in phytoremediation to improve soil quality.

Note

While the berries are edible and nutritious, their tartness and astringency mean they are often better suited for processing rather than being eaten fresh.

KEEP SEEDS REFRIGERATED FOR LONG TERM STORAGE PRIOR TO SCARIFICATION TREATMENT BELOW.