About the Chokeberry -
Black :
The Black Chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa 'black',
is an open, upright, spreading, somewhat rounded but
leggy, deciduous shrub which typically grows 3-6’
tall. It displays clusters of 5-petaled, white
flowers in spring which are followed in early autumn
by blackish purple, blueberry-sized fruits which
usually do not persist into winter. Lustrous, dark
green foliage turns an attractive purplish red in
autumn.
Although technically edible, the fruits are
extremely tart and bitter, and are not recommended
for eating off the bush. Attractive fall color and
fruit give this shrub good ornamental value for a
shrub border. Its ability to withstand wet
conditions makes it suitable for growing along
ponds, streams or water gardens. Easily grown in
average, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun
to part shade. Tolerant of wide range of soils. Best
fruit production occurs in full sun. Spreads by root
suckers to form colonies.
