Shrubs

Aronia melanocarpa 'UCONNAM012'

Ground Hug® black chokeberry

Ground Hug® black chokeberry. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners.

A very low, spreading shrub that forms a carpet of glossy green foliage. White spring flowers are followed by dark berries and vivid red fall leaves. Its groundcover habit is useful for banks and broad plantings where a taller shrub would be too bulky.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part sun
Mature size: 8–14 in. tall × 3 ft. wide
Water: Moderate; adaptable to varied soils
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9
Bloom: White; spring

Sizes & prices

#2$44.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Drought: Tolerant once established.
Salt: Salt tolerant.
Deer & rabbits: May browse spring flower buds where pressure is high.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Native range

Native range / parentage: Cultivar of a North American native species. Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
Tristate native status: Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous; red fall color.
Fruit: Dark purple berries in fall.

Growing & care

Pruning: Usually unnecessary. Prune just after flowering if needed; this removes potential berries.

Sources & photo credits

Proven Winners

www.environment.fhwa.dot.gov

Photo: Photo courtesy of Proven Winners · Authorized nursery promotional use

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.