Red Chokeberry
Aronia arbutifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Red Chokeberry is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America that produces clusters of white flowers in May and June. This adaptable plant thrives in various light and moisture conditions across 31 states from Maine to Florida.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Red Chokeberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–120" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Red chokeberry is a medium-sized native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by bright red berries in fall. The foliage turns attractive shades of orange and red in autumn, making it a four-season landscape plant.
Growing Red Chokeberry
Grow Red Chokeberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 60 to 120 inches tall and spread 36 to 72 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red 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 and beetles for pollination. The persistent red berries provide important food for birds throughout fall and winter.
Common questions
- Where does Red Chokeberry grow naturally?
- Red Chokeberry is native to 31 states across eastern North America, ranging from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, Kansas, and Iowa.
- When does Aronia arbutifolia bloom?
- Red Chokeberry blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract various pollinators including bees and beetles.
- What pollinators visit Red Chokeberry flowers?
- Red Chokeberry flowers attract bees and beetles, which help pollinate the white flower clusters during the late spring blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Red Chokeberry prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates a wide range of conditions from full sun to partial shade and can grow in wet to moderately dry soils, making it suitable for various landscape situations.
- Is Red Chokeberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Red Chokeberry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Red Chokeberry HOA-friendly?
- Red 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 Red 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