Aronia arbutifolia Berry Scape® (Red Chokeberry) Unity Grown

Aronia arbutifolia 'Berry Scape' is a brand new cultivar of chokeberry, a multi-stemmed, understory shrub native to the American east and southeast. First patented in just 2024, the  'Berry Scape' cultivar is more compact than the straight species and many other varieties on the market, growing to a consistent size of only 4-5' tall and wide. In spring, Aronia arbutifolia produces small, fragrant, white to light pink flowers, which appear along the branches in small clusters; flowers are rich in nectar and attract butterflies and other pollinators. In the summer, successfully pollinated flowers are followed by abundant clusters of red berries that persist throughout the fall and winter seasons providing birds and wildlife with late season forage, and adding excellent fall color alongside orangey-red fall foliage, and creating an effective 'Berry Scape' all year round.

Aronia arbutifolia 'Berry Scape' grows best in average, medium-moist, well-drained soils, especially when provided with full sun, but these hardy shrubs will tolerat heavy, clay soils, partial shade, and even occasional salt and drought exposure. Though 'Berry Scape' can grow well under just about any condition, more sunlight produces more flowers and a deeper, more striking fall color with wine-reds and purples. With consistent size and attractive looks, 'Berry Scape' is perfect for ornamental use around the home, and hardy enough for ecological value in pollinator gardens, woodlands, and low-lying meadows.

Note: Chokeberries are edible and work excellently in jellies and liqueurs and may also have some antioxidant health benefits, but are typically too sour and astringent to eat raw.