Cricket Hill Garden
Aronia melanocarpa, 'Nero' SPRING 2025 PRE-ORDER
Aronia melanocarpa 'Nero'
Variety description: Similar in all regards to 'Viking,' except slightly lower growing.
The cultivars 'Viking' and 'Nero' were both imported into the US from eastern Europe, where they are widely cultivated. Both of these cultivars originated in Russia in the late 19th or early 20th century, from the breeding work of the great plant breeder Ivan Michurin. Current research led by Professor Mark Brand of UCONN suggest that these two cultivars are in fact hybrids between our native aronia and the European mountain ash (Sorbus). This accounts for the larger fruit size of these two cultivars.
Site requirements: Aronia berries grow best in a full sun location with fertile soil. They are quite adaptable and will grow in poor, drier sites as well.
Size at maturity: 8-12'.
Pollination: Self-fruitful.
Pests and diseases: No insects or diseases are of concern in the Northeast. Birds will eat the berries only in the winter when the frost has lessened their astringency.
Hardiness: Will grow in USDA zones 4-9.
Plant size: 8-12", well rooted plant. Field grown, ships bare root.
When we ship: Winter/Spring 2025