| Common Name | Latin Name | Plant Family |
|---|---|---|
|
Black Chokeberry |
Aronia melanocarpa |
Rosaceae |
The fruit is a source of pectin[183], a substance that is used to thicken jams etc and as a culture medium in laboratories.
Cultivation & Habitat
Seed – best sown as soon as it is ripe in pots outdoors or in a cold frame[113]. Pre-soak stored seed overnight and then cold stratify for 3 months at 2¡c[113]. The seed germinates in 1 – 3 months at 15¡c[134]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame[113].
Division of suckers in the dormant season[200]. Very easy, they can be planted straight out into their permanent positions.
Layering[200].
Prefers a moist peaty soil in full sun or partial shade[200]. Succeeds in most soils but dislikes shallow chalk[200]. More tolerant of dry soils than other members of this genus[200].
Plants are hardy to about -25¡c.
There is at least one cultivar developed for its improved fruit. ‘Nero’ has fruits twice the size of the species with a vitamin C content of 15 – 30 mg (per 100g?). The fruit is borne in clusters of about 15, it is more flavourful and the yield is about twice that of wild forms[183]. Other cultivars developed mainly for their ornamental value include ‘Viking’ with extra large berries and ‘Aron’ with numerous large berries[182].
The sub-species A. melanocarpa elata Rehd. and A. melanocarpa grandifolia (Lindl.)Schneid. are more vigorous than the type species with larger flowers and fruits[200].
This genus is closely related to Sorbus species[200].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].
Eastern N. America – Nova Scotia to Ontario, south to Florida and Michigan.
Become ungovernable, break the chains of the matrix; grow and forage your own food and medicine.
*None of the information on this website qualifies as professional medical advice. Take only what resonates with your heart and use your own personal responsibility for what’s best for you. For more information [brackets] [000], see bibliography.