Aronia melanocarpa 'Nero'

Nero Black Chokeberry distinguishes itself from other chokeberries with its sweeter, less astringent fruit compared to the native Eastern Canadian Aronia melanocarpa. Its sizeable berries, about 1.5 cm in diameter, are smaller and more compact than the Viking variety. Growing to approximately 1 meter tall, Nero delivers impressive yields of 3-4 tons per acre at maturity, with the first harvest possible within 1-2 seasons. The purplish-black berries, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants—up to three times that of blueberries—feature deep maroon flesh and ripen from late August to September. Versatile in use, they are perfect fresh or in juices, wines, baked goods, jams, and jellies. Nero Aronia also serves well as an ornamental hedge, showcasing white spring flowers and striking reddish-orange fall foliage, making it an excellent choice for edible shelterbelts and food forests.