Aronia arbitufolia (Red Chokeberry)

Aronia arbutifolia is known as red chokeberry, a deciduous suckering shrub in the rose family. It occurs naturally in a wide range of habitats, from swamps to dry upland. Typically growing 6–10 feet tall, it is a versatile shrub tolerant of both wet soils and periods of drought once established.

Red chokeberry has an upright open habit, with dark green, glossy leaves. In spring, it produces clusters of small white flowers. The flowers are attractive to bees and other early-season pollinators.

In late summer and fall the plant produces abundant clusters of bright red berries. The fruits persist well into winter, often remaining on the branches after the leaves have fallen. They provide an important food source for songbirds such as cedar waxwings, particularly later in the season when fewer fruits are available.

The berries also explain the common name "chokeberry." Although they are not considered poisonous, fresh chokeberries are extremely astringent and bitter, producing a dry, puckering sensation in the mouth. When cooked or processed with sugar, however, the fruits can be used to make jellies, jams, syrups, and preserves.

One of the most remarkable characteristics of Aronia arbutifolia is its brilliant fall foliage. The leaves turn a truly vivid shade of orange, scarlet and crimson.