Growing aronia: black and red chokeberry for cold climates
Aronia (chokeberry) is a beautiful, easy-to-grow berry shrub that suits beginners and experienced gardeners alike. It is often planted as an ornamental shrub or hedge, thanks to its glossy green leaves, white flowers and brilliant red autumn foliage. The berries of the aronia shrub are edible and full of goodness; in fact, aronia berries are often called a “superberry” because of their high content of antioxidants and vitamins.
What is aronia?
Aronia is a genus of deciduous shrubs in the rose family. The most commonly grown is black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa), which has black berries. Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) and purple chokeberry (a hybrid between black and red) are also grown. Aronia flowers in May-June with clusters of white blossom, followed by decorative berries in late summer and beautiful red autumn colour.
Edible varieties and mix-ups
All aronia species have edible berries, but it is mainly black chokeberry and its hybrids (such as ‘Viking’) that are grown for their berries. Red chokeberry is more of an ornamental plant, but its berries can be used too. The berries grow in clusters. Aronia is completely harmless; to be sure of what you are eating, choose named varieties from a nursery.
Position and soil
Aronia thrives in sun to partial shade and is extremely hardy, coping with severe winters, although hardiness varies somewhat between varieties. It tolerates most soils but prefers fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil. Avoid extreme drought.
Planting
Plant in spring or autumn. Dig a hole 40-50 cm wide, improve the soil with compost and plant at the same depth as the plant was in its pot. Water generously. Space plants 50-100 cm apart, depending on the variety and the purpose (single shrub or hedge).
Care
Aronia is easy to look after. Water regularly during the first season and feed every year with cow manure or compost. Mulch the ground with grass clippings or bark to retain moisture. Aronia is healthy and rarely attacked by pests.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary but can be done for shape or rejuvenation. The berries form on the previous year's shoots, so avoid cutting the whole shrub right back if you want a harvest. Prune in spring to build up the shape, and clear out old branches every 5-10 years.
Pollination
Aronia is self-fertile, so you will get berries even from a single plant. Several shrubs close together can give a better harvest. Bees and other pollinators do the work.
Harvest
The berries ripen in August-September. They become sweeter after the first frosty night. Pick them by hand; the berries can be frozen or dried. Birds may also want a taste, so cover the shrubs with netting if needed.
Health value
Aronia berries are extremely rich in antioxidants (especially anthocyanins) and also contain vitamins (C, E, A, B2), iron and fibre. They have been studied for possible positive effects on blood sugar, blood pressure and the immune system. Aronia powder and dried berries are popular in smoothies and dietary supplements.
Summary
Aronia is a robust, decorative and useful shrub that does well even where winters are harsh. It is easy to grow and gives plenty of berries, beautiful foliage and many health benefits. Perfect for garden lovers who want to combine beauty with usefulness.
Author: Emma Vogiatzi
Fact-checked by Erik Hoekstra
Last updated 2025-11-27