Viking Chokeberry

The Viking Chokeberry is an attractive deciduous shrub growing 3 to 6 feet tall and wide. It has glossy dark-green leaves that turn bright colors of red, orange and gold in the fall. Fragrant white flowers in spring produce a heavy crop of large black berries that look like small cherries, ripening in September. These can be turned into juice or jelly that has a reputation for vitamins and heart-healthy properties. Grow it as an ornamental shrub in your borders, by a stream or pond, or at the edges of woodlands. Grow it in a fruit orchard for maximum berry production.

• Attractive glossy foliage turns red, orange and gold in fall
• Fragrant white flowers in spring
• Heavy crop of large black berries in early fall
• Combination ornamental and fruit bush
• Make healthy juice or jellies from the berries

Grow the Viking Chokeberry in full sun for the best berries, but it will also grow well in partial shade. It is hardy in all but the hottest and coldest parts of the country. It thrives in almost any soil, including wet ones and along streams. It is drought resistant once established, but will not grow so well on very hot, dry soils. Pests and diseases are not an issue, and pruning is only needed if you want to maximize fruit production.