Maritime Arboretum Seed Black Chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa

Black Chokeberry is a hardy, native North American shrub valued for its clusters of white spring flowers, attractive autumn foliage, and dark purple-black berries. The tart berries are commonly used for jams, jellies, juices, and other preserves. It is an excellent choice for wildlife gardens, naturalized plantings, and hedges.

Approximate Maximum Height: 0.2 m
About the Seeds: Clean Seed

Lighting: Full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best flowering and fruit production, while the plant also tolerates partial shade.

Germination: Black Chokeberry seeds have internal dormancy and require cold, moist stratification before sowing. Soak stored seeds in water for approximately 24 hours, then place them in a moist growing medium and refrigerate at approximately 1-5°C (34-41°F) for about 90-120 days. After stratification, sow approximately 3-5 mm (⅛-¼ inch) deep. Germination generally occurs within 20-30 days under suitable conditions, although it can be slower.

Watering: Keep the seed-starting medium consistently moist but not waterlogged during stratification and germination. Once seedlings emerge, continue to provide regular moisture and do not allow them to dry out while they become established.

Photo Courtesy of Maritime Arboretum Ltd.