Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima'
Red Chokeberry
An easy-to-grow native that is adaptable to a wide range of soils. 'Brilliantissima' was selected for the waxy, lustrous green foliage that turns brilliant red in fall. This selection has more flowers and fruit than the species. The flowers attract pollinators while the tart, bitter berries persist into winter. Birds and mammals eat the berries when other food sources are depleted.
Plants will colonize and spread so it is best used in large groups. Very striking in fall with the showy red fruit and foliage. Good choice for roadsides and massing as well as pollinator and winter gardens.
- Native, deciduous shrub tolerant of wet soils
- Clusters of white to light pink flowers in spring
- Bright red berries ripen fall & persist into winter
- Brilliant red fall foliage
Specialty Use
| • | Wildlife Garden |
Season of Interest (Flowering)
| • | Spring |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
| • | Fall |
Growth Rate
| • | Moderate |
Attributes
| • | Bioretention |
| • | Border or Bed |
| • | Edible |
| • | Fall Color |
| • | Low Maintenance |
| • | Mass Planting |
| • | Native |
| • | Naturalizing |
| • | Rain Garden |
| • | Salt Tolerant |
| • | Spring Bloomer |
| • | Water's Edge / Bog Plant |
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima'
Grows easily in many soil conditions, tolerating wet or dry conditions. Will grow in full sun or part shade but produces more fruit in full sun. Plants tend to sucker and spread. Can be pruned periodically to prevent it from becoming too unruly.