Nero Aronia is a selected chokeberry variety appreciated for its large, relatively mild berries compared with the wild type. Although the fruit can be tasted fresh, it is mainly valued for processing, where it reveals its full flavour and potential.
The berries are very rich in antioxidants and are excellent for juice, especially when blended with apple, as well as syrups, jams, pastries and other preserves.
Nero is also an attractive shrub for hedging thanks to its dense habit. If the fruit is not harvested, the berries are appreciated by birds in autumn.
The plant comes into production quickly, with harvest generally taking place from September to October. Flowering occurs from April to May and shows good tolerance to late spring frosts.
Nero is self-fertile, but planting another aronia variety nearby, such as Viking, can improve fruit size and overall fruit quality.
This variety originates from Russia and was obtained by the botanist Ivan Vladimirovich Michurin, known for breeding many fruit varieties and hybrids in the former USSR.
Aronia grows best in deep, fertile soils with a slightly acidic pH, similar to the conditions appreciated by pear trees. It is very hardy, reliable, and generally free from serious disease or pest problems.
For best establishment, keep the base of the shrub weed-free during the first years, either by hoeing or using mulch.
