The ever-changing Chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa, will keep you entertained all season long. In spring adorable white flowers bloom on this Missouri native. Summer and fall give way to black berries that are loved by many birds. Though berries are edible for humans, they are so bitter they were given the name Chokeberry as most people choke when trying to eat them. They can be made into jams, pies, or any berry-type food where lots of sugar may be added.

Chokeberries form into a small to medium-sized vase-shaped mound that looks perfect in the middle to back of the garden. They also excel as a lower hedge. In fall the glossy green leaves turn brilliant reds and oranges. Tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions including consistently wet or boggy.