Black chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa and Aronia prunifolia are deciduous shrubs of the Rosaceae family, native to eastern North America. Botanically, they are characterized by simple, alternate leaves that turn bright red in autumn and white flowers arranged in panicles. The fruit is a small, dark purple to black berry. While A. melanocarpa is a pure species, A. prunifolia is often considered to be a hybrid. From a phytochemical point of view, they are one of the richest natural sources of polyphenols, especially anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins, which give them an exceptionally high antioxidant capacity. Nutritionally, they are valued for their low sugar content and high fiber, vitamin (C, K, P), and mineral content. The typical tart, astringent taste of the fruit is due to the high concentration of tannins.