Black Aronia, also known as Chokeberry, is popular for perceived health benefits.  For example, it has numerous beneficial anti-oxidants, flavonoids, and acids. The fruit is high in tannin content.  So, an astringent mouth feel is noticed when eating fresh fruit.  Cultivation as a food crop developed primarily in Eastern Europe and the Korean Peninsula.  It remained relatively unknown in the United States until recently. Actually aronia is native to Northeastern North America.  And there are reports of the plants medicinal qualities prior to the American colonial era. Hence the slogan “Aronia America’s Native Superfood.” 

    Because there is a red popular in landscapes, and a purple sometimes found in the wild, I often refer to Black Aronia. Most food or medical studies of the plant refer to the black variety. Many health benefits are emphasized in the literature, but equal consideration needs to be given to flavor potential.  Accent a savory meat sauce. Mix with homemade keifer.  Add color to your apple crisp.  These and more are worth exploring.

   Aronia has winter chilling requirements.  So fruit initiation can be a problem in the south. We started growing the crop in 2009.  And we have learned how to keep the “plants” happy.  Fortunately, the Eastern Shore of Maryland is well suited to this amazing fruit.  If you would like some, please use the “Shop” page.  We ship freeze dried.  You can contact us to arrange for farm pickup of frozen or “pick your own” fresh fruit.  From a delicious smoothie to complimenting your favorite sauce, this fruit is full of possibilities and will engage the culinary mind.