Pollination Info for Upright Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia 'Erecta')

The Upright Red Chokeberry is a self-fertile shrub, which means it can pollinate itself. However, cross-pollination can increase the quantity and quality of the fruit. Cross-pollination occurs when pollen from a different plant of the same species is carried by insects or the wind to fertilize the flowers. The recommended distance between plants for cross-pollination is 50 feet.

The Upright Red Chokeberry blooms in late spring to early summer, usually in May and June. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and they are arranged in clusters called corymbs. The shrub produces fruit in late summer to early fall, usually in August and September. The fruit is a bright red to dark purple color and is edible but very tart. It is often used to make jams, jellies, and juices.

The Upright Red Chokeberry attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These pollinators are important for the survival and health of the shrub and the ecosystem it belongs to. The shrub also attracts birds that feed on the fruit, such as robins, waxwings, and thrushes. These birds help disperse the seeds of the shrub and contribute to its regeneration.

To ensure good pollination and fruit production, it is recommended to plant at least two Upright Red Chokeberry shrubs within 50 feet of each other. The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The shrub is hardy to USDA zones 3 to 8 and can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F.

Upright Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia 'Erecta')

General Information

• Q: What is an Upright Red Chokeberry?
• A: An Upright Red Chokeberry, also known as Aronia arbutifolia 'Erecta,' is a deciduous shrub that grows 6-8 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
• Q: What are its characteristics?
• A: Upright Red Chokeberry has glossy dark green leaves that turn hues of red in the fall, white to pinkish flowers in spring, and bright red berries in the fall.

Planting and Care

• Q: When is the best time to plant?
• A: The best time to plant an Upright Red Chokeberry is in the early spring or fall.
• Q: What kind of soil does it need?
• A: Upright Red Chokeberry prefers well-drained, moist soil that is slightly acidic.
• Q: How much sun does it need?
• A: Upright Red Chokeberry does well in full sun to part shade.
• Q: How often should it be watered?
• A: This plant does well when watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
• Q: Any special care to note?
• A: Upright Red Chokeberry benefits from occasional pruning, and it is best not to plant it near sidewalks or other areas where the roots may cause problems.

Usage

• Q: Is it a good plant for wildlife?
• A: Yes! Upright Red Chokeberry's red berries provide food for birds and other animals in the fall and winter months.
• Q: Is it edible for humans?
• A: While technically edible, the fruit is extremely tart and not typically consumed by humans.
• Q: Are there any other uses for it?
• A: The fruit has been used to make jams and jellies, and the plant's leaves have been used for tea. Additionally, Upright Red Chokeberry is an attractive landscaping plant that can be used in a variety of settings.

Planting Instructions for Upright Red Chokeberry:

• Choose a planting location that receives full sun to partial shade.
• Ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic with a pH between 4.5 and 7.0.
• Dig a hole twice the width of the rootball and just as deep.
• Backfill the hole with a mixture of topsoil and compost.
• Plant the Upright Red Chokeberry at the same depth it was previously growing.
• Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Care Instructions for Upright Red Chokeberry:

• Water regularly during the growing season to ensure the soil remains moist.
• Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges.
• Prune the Upright Red Chokeberry in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Monitor for pests and diseases and treat as necessary.