Aronia melanocarpa 'Viking'

Viking Chokeberry

A reliable, native deciduous shrub selected for its abundant glossy black fruit, excellent disease resistance, and vivid fall foliage. ‘Viking’ is often chosen in landscapes where strong seasonal interest and low maintenance are priorities.

Key features



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 4–8 ft



Flower color: White (in spring)



Bloom time: Spring



Fruit: Glossy black berries in late summer–fall



Fall color: Deep red to burgundy



Foliage: Green foliage with strong autumn 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 (fruit attracts birds)



Small to medium residential landscapes



Notes



Native to eastern North America



Fruit is rich in antioxidants and can be used in jams, juices, or wines (very tart)



Disease resistant and low-maintenance



Generally deer resistant once established

Plant type

Flowering Shrub

Height

3-6'

Width

5'-6'

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Spring, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Orange, Red

Fruit color

Red, Tyrian Purple

Attracts

Birds

Shape

Broad Upright, Clump

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No