Autumn Black Magic Chokeberry

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa 'Autumn Magic')

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa 'Autumn Magic') is a compact, ornamental cultivar of the native black chokeberry, selected for its improved foliage retention, abundant fruiting, and striking fall color. Developed at the University of British Columbia, this multi-season shrub offers white spring flowers, glossy black berries in late summer, and deep red to purple foliage in autumn. Its resilience, wildlife value, and neat form make it an attractive addition to both native and formal landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Autumn Magic' typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, mounded shape well suited to foundation plantings and low hedges. In spring, flat-topped clusters of small white flowers appear, supporting early pollinators. These are followed by shiny black berries that persist well into winter, offering visual contrast and food for birds. The fall foliage display is especially vibrant, with leaves turning brilliant shades of burgundy, red, and purple before dropping.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best flowering, fruiting, and fall color in full sun.
• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including moist clay and dry sandy loam; prefers slightly acidic, well-drained conditions.
• Water: Moderate; established plants tolerate both periodic wetness and short dry spells.
• Humidity: Performs well in a range of climates, including humid regions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�8; extremely cold hardy and adaptable.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Shrub: Multi-season interest and compact form make it a strong choice for accent plantings.
• Pollinator and Wildlife Gardens: Supports beneficial insects and offers berries for birds.
• Low Hedges or Borders: Dense habit makes it ideal for informal screening or edge planting.
• Rain Gardens: Thrives in moist soils and supports ecological stormwater management.
• Mass Plantings: Excellent for planting in drifts or large-scale native restoration projects.

Low Maintenance Care

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry requires little care once established, performing well in tough landscape conditions. Its disease resistance and tolerance for wet and dry soils make it an easy addition to sustainable gardens.

• Watering: Water regularly during the first year; mature plants are drought tolerant and accept seasonal wetness.
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in late winter or early spring to shape or rejuvenate older growth.
• Fertilizing: Not typically necessary; apply compost or balanced fertilizer if growth is slow.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to most pests and diseases; reliable in urban and rural settings.
• Winter Care: No special treatment needed; berries persist into early winter for seasonal interest.

Why Choose Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry?

Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa 'Autumn Magic') brings native durability and seasonal drama to compact spaces. With bold fall color, persistent fruit, and ecological value, it�s a versatile and sustainable landscape shrub.

• Brilliant Fall Color: Deep red and purple foliage enhances the late-season landscape.
• Compact Growth: Ideal for smaller spaces, borders, and low-maintenance gardens.
• Wildlife-Friendly: Pollinator flowers and bird-attracting berries support biodiversity.
• Versatile Tolerance: Handles wet sites, poor soils, and urban conditions with ease.
• Cold Hardy and Reliable: Performs well from northern climates to temperate zones.

For compact form, native beauty, and year-round interest, Autumn Magic Black Chokeberry is a dependable shrub that elevates both residential and ecological landscapes.