The Black Chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa 'black', is an open, upright, spreading, somewhat rounded but leggy, deciduous shrub which typically grows 3-6’ tall. It displays clusters of 5-petaled, white flowers in spring which are followed in early autumn by blackish purple, blueberry-sized fruits which usually do not persist into winter. Lustrous, dark green foliage turns an attractive purplish red in autumn.
Although technically edible, the fruits are extremely tart and bitter, and are not recommended for eating off the bush. Attractive fall color and fruit give this shrub good ornamental value for a shrub border. Its ability to withstand wet conditions makes it suitable for growing along ponds, streams or water gardens. Easily grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of wide range of soils. Best fruit production occurs in full sun. Spreads by root suckers to form colonies.