Purple Chokeberry Viking

Despite their rather unappetising name, chokeberries are delicious cooked or in jam, one of the richest sources of antioxidants known, and very high in Vitamin C. Aronia x prunifolia Viking is an upright, suckering, deciduous shrub to 6’6”/2m high and wide, with deep green leaves which turn a beautiful purple in autumn. It is very high-yielding, and sweeter than some chokeberries. Big clusters of white flowers tinged with pink are borne in May and June. The purplish-black berries are large, tart, very juicy and borne in profusion; they may need protection from birds. Purple chokeberry Viking is easy to grow, and can be used as part of a fruiting hedge, although yields won’t be as high. Prune like blackcurrants. Could also make a lovely flowering and fruiting hedge.

Site: Tolerates exposure, but not maritime exposure
Soil: Fertile, moist but well-drained, slightly acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Pick: From late August for 4-6 weeks
Keep: Does not keep
Hardiness: Very hardy
Pollination: Self-fertile, but may crop better if a different cultivar is grown nearby
Uses: Juicing, preserving, cooking