Species

Aronia melanocarpaChokeberry

7 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa 'Autumn Magic'

$39.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Aronia melanocarpa is a tough, adaptable, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, valued for its multi-season interest, wildlife value, and edible, antioxidant-rich fruit.

The 'Autumn Magic' cultivar is noted for being more compact than the species, with larger, glossier leaves, larger fruit, and brilliant red and purple fall color.

Uses & Benefits:

A four-season shrub with clusters of white spring flowers, glossy green summer foliage, brilliant red-purple fall color, and dark purple-black berries that can persist after leaf drop.

The berries are edible and extremely high in antioxidants, making them a popular 'superfruit' for juices, jams, and wines. The plant's toughness makes it ideal for difficult sites.

The flowers provide an early nectar and pollen source for pollinators. The fruit is eaten by birds and other wildlife, though often not until late in the season after it has softened.

SpeciesAronia melanocarpaChokeberry

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Eastern North America (cultivar selection)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$39.95

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$92.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun to part shade.
It adapts to most soils, including wet or dry conditions.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water well.
It may sucker to form a colony over time.

Pro Tip

For the best fruit production and most vibrant fall color, plant in full sun. It will tolerate shade but with reduced performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during establishment.
Allow space for it to spread naturally if desired.
Use the berries for jams, jellies, or juices.
Prune out oldest canes periodically to rejuvenate.

Don't

Do not worry about poor soil; it is very adaptable.
Avoid heavy fertilization, which is generally unnecessary.
Don't expect sweet berries; they are very astringent raw.
Do not plant in deep shade if fruit is desired.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Plant
Prune

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Mass plantings for brilliant fall colorEdible landscaping and fruit productionRain gardens and wet areas

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata Panicum virgatum Eutrochium purpureum Clethra alnifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry questions

What zones can Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry grow in?

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry deer resistant?

Yes — Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry bloom?

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry need full sun?

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.