Red Chokeberry

Brilliant red chokeberry is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub selected for glossy foliage, white spring flowers, bright red fruit, and scarlet fall color. The cultivar ‘Brilliantissima’ is recognized by the Morton Arboretum as Brilliant Red Chokeberry; USDA ARS treats the historical varietal name as a synonym ([USDA ARS GRIN](https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomydetail?id=409171); [Morton Arboretum](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/red-chokeberry/)). ## In the Garden Use this shrub in a mixed border or mass planting where its fall color and persistent red fruit can be seen. The cultivar is reported at about 6–8 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide. Oregon State University notes that ‘Brilliantissima’ has darker, glossier leaves, stronger scarlet fall color, and larger, more abundant fruit than the species. Fruit may persist into winter, depending on conditions and wildlife use. ## Growing Conditions Full sun to part shade supports good flowering and fall color. It adapts to a range of soils, from moist to well-drained, and should be given room for its natural branching form. ## Maintenance Prune after flowering if shaping is needed, and remove unwanted suckers to manage spread. Mulch to conserve soil moisture during establishment. Avoid routine hard pruning when the natural branching form is desired.