Aronia arbutifolia ‘Brilliantissima’, commonly known as Brilliant Chokeberry, is a cultivar of a native deciduous shrub from eastern North America, selected for its dense habit and heavy fruit set. This upright, multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall and is valued for its tidy structure and abundant clusters of bright red berries that persist into winter. In spring, small white flowers appear along the stems, providing an important nectar source for pollinators. ‘Brilliantissima’ thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, acidic soils, making it well suited for native plantings, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes.

Why choose Brilliant Chokeberry

• Native lineage: Cultivar of the native species Aronia arbutifolia

• Abundant fruit: Produces showy red berries that persist into winter

• Adaptable shrub: Performs well in moist soils and challenging sites

Cultivating tips

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, acidic soils; tolerates occasional wet conditions

• Maintenance: Low—prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed

Designs for your garden

• Native plantings: Integrates easily into woodland edges and naturalized areas

• Rain gardens: Suitable for moisture-retentive sites

• Shrub borders: Provides structure and seasonal interest

Ecological benefits

• Pollinator-friendly: Spring flowers provide nectar for bees and other insects

• Native value: Supports regional ecosystems and biodiversity

• Wildlife support: Berries provide food for birds through fall and winter