Dwarf Black Chokeberry

Growth habit

Shrub - Clonal

Biocultural value

The ripe berries were dried and mixed with animal fat and meat to form a protein rich snack called pemmican. The very tart berries were also made into a tea for treating those suffering from colds.

Location

Robison Herb Garden

Source of plant

Fairweather Gardens

Description

Black chokeberry is an open, upright, spreading, somewhat rounded but leggy, suckering, deciduous shrub that typically grows 3-6’ tall and is noted for its clusters of 5-petaled white spring (May) flowers, glossy obovate dark green leaves (to 3” long), black autumn berries and purple/red fall color. ‘Morton’ is a somewhat more compact cultivar that typically grows to 2-3’ tall and to 4-5’ wide. Plants feature the same flowers, foliage, fruits and fall color as the species.

USDA Hardiness Zone

3

Special characteristics

growth habit, medicinal/pharmaceutical