Aronia melanocarpa 'Autumn Magic'

Autumn Magic Chokeberry

A compact, native deciduous shrub admired for its rich fall color, abundant black berries, and tidy habit. Aronia melanocarpa ‘Autumn Magic’ is prized for its consistent performance and striking orange-red autumn foliage, making it a standout in borders, mass plantings, and wildlife gardens.

Key features



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 4–6 ft



Flower color: White (in spring)



Bloom time: Spring



Fruit: Glossy black berries in late summer to fall



Fall color: Brilliant orange to red



Foliage: Green foliage turning vibrant fall hues



Form: Upright, rounded shrub



Life cycle: Deciduous shrub



Growing conditions



Sun: Full sun to part shade



Soil: Moist, well-drained; tolerates wet soils



Water: Moderate; adaptable to varied conditions



Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8



Landscape use



Shrub borders and mixed foundation beds



Mass plantings and hedges



Native and naturalized landscapes



Wildlife and pollinator gardens (birds love the fruit)



Small to medium residential landscapes



Notes



Native to eastern North America



Berries are high in antioxidants and can be used in jams, juices, or wines (very tart)



Deer resistant once established



Strong autumn color adds seasonal interest

Plant type

Flowering Shrub

Height

3-6'

Width

7'

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Purple, Red

Fruit color

Black

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No