Plant Characteristics
Plant Preference/Growing Conditions:
The lowscape mound requires partial shade, medium water usage, and moist, acidic soils. It is a low maintenance plant and is very flood tolerant.
Growth Habit/Description:
Lowscape mound is a compact, low-growing selection of black chokeberry with a dense, mound-forming habit. The foliage is glossy and deep green in summer, with red and orange fall coloration. The lowscape mound can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Bloom Season:
The lowscape mound will bloom anytime from March through June.
Fall and/or Winter Interest?
Yes. The Black Chokeberry leaves turn a beautiful red in the fall, with dark berries.
Distribution
Habitat: You can find the mound in lowlands, dunes, bogs, and bluffs.
Native to Arkansas? Yes.
Native to Garland County? Yes.
Endemic to Arkansas? No.
Ecological Value
Host Plant for Caterpillars?
Yes. The Black Chokeberry hosts 29 different caterpillar species.
Other Known Ecological Value?
Yes. The lowscape mound attracts birds.
Other Interesting Facts
Origin of Name: Melano means black and carpa meaning fruit. This is derived from the ripe fruits of this species. The common name, Chokeberry, references its tart and bitter berries.
Related Species: The Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) is similar to the Black chokeberry. Both are native to North America, and their natural ranges overlap.
Use For Food/Medicine:
The lowscape mound fruit can be used to make jams and jellies.
References