Purple Chokeberry
Aronia prunifolia
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Aronia prunifolia is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 2.5 m (8ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 3
Where it is found
Low woodlands.
Eastern N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - dried and used for making pemmican. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Food Forest: Plants for Edible Forest Gardens and Food Forests.
How it is grown
Prefers a moist peaty soil in full sun or partial shade. Succeeds in most soils but dislikes shallow chalk. Plants are hardy to about -25°c. This genus is closely related to Sorbus species. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus. This species is probably a naturally occurring hybrid, A. arbutifolia x A. melanocarpa.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in pots outdoors or in a cold frame. Pre-soak stored seed overnight and then cold stratify for 3 months at 2°c. The seed germinates in 1 - 3 months at 15°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring. Since this species is believed to be a hybrid it will probably not breed true from seed. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Division of suckers in the dormant season. Very easy, they can be planted straight out into their permanent positions. Layering.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist