Red Chokeberry

Red Chokeberry is a native shrub that is commonly found in the Eastern United States. Suitable for Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, it grows from six to ten feet high and from three to five feet wide. The plant is easily propagated from seeds, cuttings, or divisions, and has multiseasonal appeal for lawns and gardens.

The Lovely Appearance Of Red Chokeberry

In landscaping applications, it is an ornamental plant that produces small, delicate blossoms in early spring. During summer, the plant has dark green leaves that turn deep red, purple or orange in the autumn. In September, the plant produces its namesake red berries. The glossy berries grow in colorful clusters that last until mid-winter. The shrub is also suitable for creating borders for water features, such as ponds, as the plant tolerates wet, boggy conditions well.

Benefits Of Planting The Shrub

It is also suitable for erosion control along embankments and other erosion-prone areas. It is also an excellent option for borders, either alone in a mass planting or as single addition to mixed shrubs. This versatile thrives in well-drained, moist soil. While it tolerates partial shade well, locations with full sun are ideal for growing shrubs that produce vivid fall foliage and abundant winter berries.

It is resistant to drought, pests and disease, and can withstand both salt exposure and pollution. During summer, the glossy leaves are dark green with a grey underside that feels fuzzy to the touch. The leaves develop alternately along the slender, brown branches and are obovate shaped with finely serrated margins.

The Beauty Of The Shrub

The Red Chokeberry bush has a slender stems that are thinner at the base. The clusters of white or pink flowers have five petals and are about 1/3 inch in diameter, while the red berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter. When allowed to remain on the plants, the berries attract a variety of birds during late winter when food is scarce.

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