Aronia prunifolia Purple Chokeberry
General
A deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. It is prized for its clusters of small white or pink flowers in spring, which give way to dark purple, almost black, berries in late summer. The berries are tart and astringent, often used in jams, juices, and teas, and the plant itself is valued in landscaping for its attractive foliage and fall color.
Plant Description
Glossy, deep green leaves that turn vibrant shades of red and purple in the fall. It produces small clusters of delicate white or pink flowers in spring, which give rise to small, round berries that mature to a dark purple-black color by late summer. Its overall appearance is characterized by its dense, bushy growth habit and the contrast between its dark berries and colorful foliage.
Height (ft)
3-6
Spread (ft)
3-5
Soil moisture
Moist to wet
Soil types
Most soils, sandy, loamy, clay (acidic soils with good drainage)
Wetland indicator
FACW
Shade tolerance
Full sun to Partial Shade
Bloom color
White/Pink
Bloom period
May to June
Fall conspicuous
Yes
Anaerobic tolerance
Moderate
Drought tolerance
Moderate
Salinity tolerance
No
Mono/dioecious
Mono & Dio
Range
Wide range from Maine to Florida along the East Coast, and westward to parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and the eastern Midwest states such as Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
