Where Do Black Chokeberries Grow?

Growing Zones

• Black chokeberry shrubs grow best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 8. In the USDA zone 8, the weather dips below freezing occasionally, but in USDA zone 3, the winter temperatures drop below freezing regularly. In these zones, the fibrous roots of these fruiting plants embed in the soil and form large colonies of suckers.

Native Habitat

• These bushes grow wild in eastern North America stretching from Canada, near the Great Lakes area, south through the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains. They are found in moist woodlands, thickets or clearings on hills. These plants grow in areas that are very wet and even tolerate clay soil.

Growing Conditions

• Black chokeberry shrubs produce fruit best in full sun exposure, but they tolerate partial shade conditions. These bushes tolerate a wide range of soil from dry to boggy. Well-draining soil that holds moisture is preferred. Spreading 1 to 3 inches of organic mulch around the base of the shrubs prevents the soil from drying out. Use mulch such as wood chips, shredded leaves or pine straw. Spacing out the shrubs provides the leaves with good air circulation, so mildew is not a problem.

Uses

• If black chokeberry plants are not controlled, they will grow naturalized throughout the landscape. These shrubs are grown as a hedge in damp areas and used in rain gardens, which help control rain runoff. The edible fruit tastes very bitter and tart right off the bush. The berries sweeten up when made into jam and jelly.