Aronia Berries at Benson Community Garden: A Native Superfruit Ready for Harvest

August 4, 2025 – Kurt Goetzinger

At the Benson Community Garden, we’ve always believed that gardening is about more than just vegetables. It’s about cultivating biodiversity, nurturing native species, and giving our gardeners an opportunity to experience a wide variety of fruits, herbs, and plants they may not find elsewhere. Over the past few years, we’ve expanded our collection of native berries and fruiting plants, and we’re excited to add even more in the coming seasons.

One of the garden’s most remarkable plants is our Aronia Berry bush, also known as Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa). This particular shrub is about 10 years old and has grown exceptionally tall, towering over what’s typical for its species. While Aronia bushes are generally expected to reach between 3 to 6 feet in height, our specimen has thrived—likely due to its prime location with well-drained, moist soil and full sun exposure.

What is an Aronia Berry?

Aronia berries, or Black Chokeberries, are a native North American shrub from the Rose family (Rosaceae). They are commonly found in wet woods and swamps across the eastern United States. While their sharp astringent taste might make your mouth pucker if eaten fresh, they’re a powerhouse ingredient when processed into juices, syrups, jams, wines, teas, and even salsas.

Beyond their culinary versatility, Aronia berries are valued for their incredible nutritional profile. Often called a Native American superfruit, Aronia berries have been used for centuries for their antioxidant-rich properties, which help fight disease, support cardiovascular health, and boost overall immunity. Native Americans traditionally used every part of the plant—for nutrition, dyeing materials, curing meats, and medicinal purposes.

Modern nutritional science supports these traditional uses. Aronia berries are packed with anthocyanins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and Vitamin C, making them one of the most antioxidant-dense berries you can find. Numerous studies highlight their potential benefits in reducing inflammation, improving blood pressure, and supporting metabolic health.

A Perfect Fit for Our Wildlife Habitat

This year, Benson Community Garden was officially recognized as a Certified Wildlife Habitat—a designation that celebrates our commitment to supporting pollinators and local ecosystems. Aronia plays a key role in that mission. In spring, the bush produces delicate white flowers that provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. The dense branches offer shelter for birds, while the berries serve as a late-season food source for local wildlife.

By growing plants like Aronia, we’re not just creating beauty—we’re supporting the broader ecological web right here in our neighborhood.

Harvest Time—Try Some!

We’re happy to announce that the Aronia berries are now ready for harvest. Garden members are welcome to pick a small amount to take home and try. However, please keep in mind that with 36 plots and over 50 members, we want to ensure that as many people as possible have a chance to taste and learn about this special fruit. These berries are reserved for Benson Community Garden members only.

If you’re curious how to enjoy them, we recommend blending a handful into smoothies, making a syrup or jelly, or even experimenting with homemade Aronia tea. Their tartness mellows when processed, revealing a rich, deep berry flavor.

A Growing Collection of Native Fruits

Over the past year, we’ve planted a variety of new berry and fruit-bearing plants on the garden property, including native elderberries and goji berry vines. We’re committed to expanding these offerings in 2025, giving our members a chance to explore growing and tasting fruits that are not only delicious but play a vital role in local ecosystems.

Cloning for Future Plant Sales

In late winter, we’ll be attempting to clone our Aronia bush through layering techniques, with hopes of offering young Aronia plants for sale and to give away in 2026. Our long-term goal is to provide members with the opportunity to grow this exceptional native species in their own yards, continuing the mission of sustainability and biodiversity right at home.

Why Aronia Matters

Beyond the nutritional and ecological benefits, Aronia berries tell a deeper story. Their resilience, traditional uses by Native American communities, and reemergence in modern health trends make them a perfect example of how native plants can connect us to our environment and our heritage. By growing Aronia at Benson Community Garden, we’re not just adding another plant—we’re fostering education, conservation, and a taste of history.