Red chokeberry - Aronia arbutifolia (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red chokeberry

Also known as: Chokeberry

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) is a flowering, branching shrub species native to North America. Red chokeberry grows in eastern Canada, the eastern United States, and the central United States. This species produces berries, which many people think taste foul.

Scientific classification

Species

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.8 m to 3 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

Red, Brown, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Red chokeberry

Attributes of Red chokeberry

Growth Rate

Red chokeberry's moderate speed during spring and summer induces well-paced development, perceptible in the orderly expansion of its leaf coverage and height. This rate allows its red berries to achieve optimum ripeness by summer's end, a critical horticultural attribute for its species.

Distribution of Red chokeberry

Distribution Map

Red chokeberry is a plant native to the temperate regions of Eastern North America. It has also been introduced to regions in Western Europe. Where it is not native, red chokeberry is often cultivated, indicating its ability to adapt and thrive in a variety of conditions beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Pine bottomlands, swamps, open bogs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red chokeberry, including the following common varieties :

Red chokeberry 'Brilliantissima'

Quickly Identify Red chokeberry

Glossy dark green leaves transitioning to red or purple in fall.

Clusters of white to light pink flowers in spring, leading to reddish-purple berries.

Shiny red berries, 1/4-1/3 inch (6.35-8.47 mm) in diameter.

Multi-stemmed upright stem with distinctive reddish color and bright red buds.

Thin, smooth reddish-brown bark exfoliating to reveal textural changes.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Red chokeberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red chokeberry prefers moist woodland-like conditions and requires consistent moisture without waterlogging. Water every 1-2 weeks based on light and temperature. Mulching helps retain soil moisture during dry spells, ensuring a stable water supply during active growth periods.

Fertilize: For red chokeberry health, use balanced fertilizers, applying high nitrogen early for leaf growth and switching to balanced types before flowering. Fertilize biannually, following manufacturer guidelines; avoid over-fertilization. Reduce applications in winter, and consider compost or organic options for soil health.

Pruning: Pruning red chokeberry in early spring is crucial for healthy growth, involving the removal of dead wood and thinning crowded branches. Rejuvenation pruning, cutting older stems to the base every few years, promotes berry production. Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease.

Propagation: Red chokeberry is propagated via semi-hardwood cuttings or simple layering in autumn and winter. Moderate difficulty is expected, with success indicated by new growth and root development. Maintaining adequate moisture and well-draining soil is essential for optimal propagation.

Repotting: Repot red chokeberry every 2-3 years in early spring when it outgrows its container. Choose a large, sturdy pot to support its growth. After repotting, keep the soil moist and provide partial shade for a smooth transition and healthy growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Red chokeberry

Attributes of Red chokeberry

Distribution of Red chokeberry

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Red chokeberry

Care Guide for Red chokeberry

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases