Aronia arbutifolia aka Red Chokeberry

Taxonomy

Aronia arbutifolia, also known as red chokeberry, is a deciduous shrub native to eastern Canada and the eastern and central United States. It grows in clumps, with branching stems that emerge from the roots. The shrub reaches heights of around 2.5m and has erect branches that may arch as it ages. Its dark green, ovate leaves turn red in the autumn. In late spring, clusters of small white flowers, sometimes tinged with pink, bloom and are followed by red fruits. Although the fruits are bitter and acidic when eaten raw, they are high in pectin and can be used to make delicious jams and jellies. Aronia arbutifolia is a popular choice for native landscaping and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including boggy soils. It thrives in full sun to part shade and is resistant to most insect and disease problems, although it may be susceptible to leaf spots and twig/fruit blight. This shrub is versatile and can be grouped or massed in shrub borders, woodland areas, or even near ponds or streams. Its colonial growth habit can be left unrestrained in naturalized areas. With its multi-season ornamental interest, including vibrant autumn foliage, Aronia arbutifolia is a valuable native plant.

Common names

Red Chokeberry

How to care for Red Chokeberry

Difficulty

Caring for Red Chokeberry is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Red Chokeberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Red Chokeberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Red Chokeberry prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Red Chokeberry grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Red Chokeberry as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Red Chokeberry’s native range is Eastern N. America - Massachusetts to Minnesota and south to Texas and Florida.


More info:
Wikipedia