Aronia is a type of shrub native to North America that is now grown in Eastern Europe. “Aronia” generally refers to the berries that grow on the shrub. These aronia berries are also known as chokeberries because of their sharp, mouth-drying effect.

How did chokeberry get its name?

The name "chokeberry" comes from the astringency of the fruits, which create the sensation of making one's mouth pucker. Chokeberries are often mistakenly called chokecherries, the common name for Prunus virginiana.

Can you eat Chokeberries?

Black chokeberry can also be used as an edible fruit crop although the fruit is too astringent to eat raw. The high-antioxidant fruit is used in baking and to make jams, jellies, syrup, tea, juice and wine.