Aronia
(Aronia melanocarpa)
Native to America, Aronia has become very popular throughout the world. It is valued both for it's nutritious fruit as well as it's ornamental aspects. In the spring these shrubs are covered with large clusters of snowy white flowers followed in the fall by large, attractive, blue-black berries. The grand finale is the striking, fire engine red, fall foliage in October. The fruit is very nutritious and extremely high in antioxidants (even higher than blueberries and elderberries). Aronia berries are eaten fresh but are more commonly used to make tasty juice and preserves. The very dark blue juice is also a high quality, stable, natural food color.
Aronia is hardy to -40°F (USDA zone 3), is pest and disease resistant, likes full to half day sun and well-drained soil. They are self-fertile and will usually begin to bear fruit the 2nd year after planting producing 10+ pounds of fruit at maturity.
Aronia is hardy to -40°F (USDA zone 3), is pest and disease resistant, likes full to half day sun and well-drained soil. They are self-fertile and will usually begin to bear fruit the 2nd year after planting producing 10+ pounds of fruit at maturity.