Viking Aronia

The Viking Aronia, also known as Viking Chokeberry originates from Finland. When compared to our native Aronia (Aronia Melanocarpa) which originates from Eastern Canada and has astringent flavour, the Viking cultivar has less astringency with sweeter and more flavourful fruit. 

It also produces large berries at around 1.5 cm (1/2") in size and impressive yields of up to 5 tons per acre once fully mature. It is very popular and grown commercially in Eastern Europe.

Berries can be eaten fresh and add a nutritional boost when blended with other fruits as it has been well known to be high in vitamin C and antioxidants. It has up to three times more antioxidants than blueberries! Viking Aronia has purplish-black berries that grow in clusters and have a deep maroon-coloured flesh. They are flavourful when mixed in juice and delicious in wine, baking, jams and jellies. The berries ripen by late August and into September.

Grows well in hedges and is a great addition to your edible shelter belt or food forest. It is a highly recommended ornamental shrub, from beautiful white blossoms in the spring to stunningly vibrant reddish-orange leaves in autumn! 

On an interesting note, recent genetic testing indicates that the Viking Aronia is likely a hybrid between Aronia Melanocarpa and Sorbus Aucuparia (Mountain Ash). 

Hardiness Zone: 2

Height: 1.5 meters (5 feet)

Spread: 1.5 meters (5 feet)

Soil Preference: Well drained 

Light Exposure: Full sun, partial shade (produces sweeter fruit in full sun)

Pollination: Self-fertile 

Latin Name: Aronia melanocarpa x Sorbus aucuparia 'Viking'