Origin and Common Names
Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers. var. glabra Ell., commonly known as the smooth Chokeberry, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern and central regions of the United States, from Maine to Louisiana. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, which includes other important fruit trees such as apples, pears, and plums.
Appearance
The smooth Chokeberry grows up to 10 feet tall and wide, forming a dense and spreading crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval shaped, measuring up to 3 inches long and arranged in a spiral pattern. The flowers are white to pinkish, appearing in terminal clusters in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, round berry that ripens in late summer to early fall. The berries are glossy, red to black in color, and have a sour taste. The smooth Chokeberry is highly valued for its ornamental characteristics, such as the brilliant red fall foliage and the attractive bark.
Uses
The smooth Chokeberry is a versatile plant, with several uses in the landscape and in human nutrition. As an ornamental plant, it is suitable for hedges, borders, and mass plantings. Its dense growth habit and attractive bark make it ideal for erosion control and wildlife habitat. The berries are high in antioxidants and vitamins, and are used in various food products such as jams, jellies, juices, and wines. The leaves and bark contain tannins that have medicinal properties, such as treating diarrhea, coughs, and sore throats. The smooth Chokeberry is also a popular plant for attracting birds and butterflies to gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
Aronia arbutifolia grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade conditions. The plant can handle sunlight for at least six hours a day, but excessive sunlight can cause the leaves to wither. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the shrub in a location that receives partial shade to regulate the amount of sunlight and protect it from heat stress or desiccation.
Temperature Requirements
Aronia arbutifolia is a hardy plant that can survive in a range of temperature conditions. The plant is sufficiently adapted to the cold, and it can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the shrub performs optimally in temperatures ranging from 60 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit. High heat and dry conditions can significantly impact the plant and can lead to wilting, leaf drop, or other growth problems.
Soil Requirements
Aronia arbutifolia prefers acidic, well-drained soil. The plant cannot survive in poorly drained soils that can waterlog the roots. Clay soils are also unsuitable because they are susceptible to waterlogging. Ideally, the pH level of the soil should range from 4.5 to 6.5. The plant requires consistent moisture levels and does exceptionally well in damp locations near streams or water features.
Cultivation of Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers. var. glabra Ell.
Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers. var. glabra Ell. is commonly known as the smooth Chokeberry. It is an ornamental shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It's native to the eastern United States and can grow up to 6-10 feet tall and wide.
While the shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil types, it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. To plant the Aronia arbutifolia shrub, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball, and mix some organic compost to the soil. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, then water it thoroughly. It's best to plant the shrub in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
The Aronia arbutifolia shrub requires regular watering to grow healthy and produce fruits. While it's drought-tolerant, the shrub needs at least one inch of water per week during the growing season. Use a garden hose or a drip irrigation system to water the shrub at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the Aronia arbutifolia shrub annually helps improve its growth and increase fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 granular fertilizer in the spring, before the new growth starts. Sprinkle the fertilizer around the base of the shrub and water it in.
Pruning
Pruning the Aronia arbutifolia shrub should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Start by removing any dead or diseased branches, then prune the shrub to keep its shape. Thin out some of the old branches to maintain a healthy look. Cut back some of the older stems to promote new growth.
By following these cultivation and care guidelines, you can successfully grow and maintain the Aronia arbutifolia shrub, which will add aesthetic appeal to your garden or landscape.
Propagation of Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers. var. glabra Ell.
Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers. var. glabra Ell., commonly known as smooth red chokeberry, is a deciduous shrub that is native to eastern North America. It is easy to propagate and is commonly used in landscapes, gardens, and restoration projects.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra can be done by seed. The plant produces small, black, glossy seeds enclosed in a pulpy berry. Harvest the berries when they are fully ripe and crush them to extract the seeds. Clean the seeds and dry them in a cool, dry place. Sow the seeds in well-drained, moist soil in the fall or spring, at a depth of 1/4 inch. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks to one month.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra can also be done by stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings of 6 to 8 inches in length from the current season’s growth in early spring or fall. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut ends in rooting hormone, and plant them in well-drained soil, with good drainage. Place the pot in a shaded area and keep the soil moist. The cuttings will root in about six weeks. Once rooted, transplant the cuttings to a pot or the ground, depending on your preference.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra can also be done by dividing the root system. In early spring or fall, dig up the established shrub and gently divide the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and roots attached. Replant each section in well-drained soil with good drainage and water it well. Place the pot in a shaded area and keep the soil moist until new growth is visible. This method is useful to revitalize old and overgrown shrubs.
Disease Management
One common disease that affects Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra is Entomosporium leaf spot. This disease causes small reddish-brown spots on the foliage which then enlarge and coalesce. Infected leaves eventually turn yellow and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected leaves and destroy them. Also, avoid overhead watering and prune the plant to improve air circulation.
Fungal cankers also affect Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra. These appear as sunken areas on the bark, often with a dead section in the center. To manage this disease, remove infected branches and destroy them. If the infection is severe, the entire plant may need to be removed.
Pest Management
One common pest that affects Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra is the spider mite. These pests are tiny and difficult to see, but their presence can be detected by the fine webbing they produce on the plant. Spider mites suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off the leaves, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill any remaining pests.
The scales are another pest that affects Aronia arbutifolia var. glabra. These insects appear as small bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. Scales feed on the sap of the plant and can cause foliage to turn yellow and fall off. To manage scales, scrape them off with a sharp object like a toothbrush or a piece of plastic. You can also use a horticultural oil to smother the insects. Repeat these methods as needed to eradicate the scales.
