ELLIOT chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa

Main characteristics

• Height/width  
  • Height approximately 1 to 2 meters; typical width around 1.5 m.
    
• Flowering    
  • Single, white flowers in clusters (“corymbs”) of 6 to 12 flowers, diameter approximately 15 mm.
  • Flowering around late May to early June.
    
• Fruits/berries    
  • Generally globular or oval berries, 6-8 mm in diameter, shiny dark purple-black in color, with a small “cross”-shaped depression at the top.
    
• Harvest    
  • August to September depending on the region.
    
• Hardiness/zone    
  • Hardy to zone 2b in several sources, meaning it can withstand very cold winters (≈ -40°C or slightly less depending on location); some sources also mention zone 2a.
    
• Soil type/conditions    
  • Prefers cool, well-drained soil. Tolerates some moisture but does not tolerate saturated soils.
  • Ideal in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade with a decrease in yield or quality. Recommended pH around 5-6.5.

Yield & uses

• Yield per plant: Approximately 14 lbs (≈ 6-7 kg) per plant for ‘Elliot’.
• Yield per hectare: Approximately 14,000 kg/ha for this variety under optimal growing conditions.
• Uses: Mainly for processing—juice, jellies, derivative products. Less often consumed fresh due to its astringency.

Strengths & advantages

• High hardiness: Very good choice for regions with harsh winters, thanks to its hardiness zone 2b. 
• Fairly good production from the first few years, especially if conditions are favorable (soil, exposure).
• Ornamental appeal: beautiful white flowers in spring, foliage that turns beautiful colors in fall.
• Versatile for processing: well suited for juice, jelly, concentrates, etc.

Limitations or aspects to watch for

• Astringent taste/acidity: like many aronia berries, the fruit is not sweet when raw and has a strong taste; processing is often necessary to soften it.
• Soil sensitivity: requires well-drained soil; overly wet or heavy soils can be problematic.
• Late ripening possible: depending on latitude and conditions, the fruit may require the entire warm season to ripen. If autumn is short, choose the location carefully to maximize warmth and season.
• Maintenance: pruning, good ventilation, possibly protection of fruit from birds or losses due to late weather conditions.