Black Chokeberry
Aronia melanocarpa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Aronia melanocarpa (Black Chokeberry) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America that produces white flower clusters in May and June, followed by dark purple-black berries that attract birds and wildlife.
Black Chokeberry is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Black chokeberry is a compact native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by dark purple-black berries in fall. It offers excellent four-season interest with glossy green summer foliage that turns brilliant orange-red in autumn. This low-maintenance shrub adapts well to various soil conditions and tolerates both wet and dry sites.
Growing Black Chokeberry
Grow Black Chokeberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 60 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Chokeberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles, while the nutritious berries feed over 40 bird species including robins, catbirds, and woodpeckers. The dense branching also provides nesting sites for small birds.
Common questions
- When does Black Chokeberry bloom?
- Aronia melanocarpa blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- What pollinators visit Black Chokeberry?
- Black Chokeberry flowers attract various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles during its May-June bloom period.
- Where is Aronia melanocarpa native?
- Black Chokeberry is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas.
- What growing conditions does Black Chokeberry prefer?
- Aronia melanocarpa is adaptable to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soil moisture levels from wet to moderately dry.
- Is Black Chokeberry toxic to livestock?
- Black Chokeberry is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is Black Chokeberry HOA-friendly?
- Black Chokeberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Black Chokeberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz