Aronia Berries grow on Aronia Bushes/Shrubs which consist of 3 genus or species, theses shrubs generally reach heights of 3-10 feet. Aronia Bushes usually begin producing berries by their 3rd year, aronia berries are pea sized circular berries that tend to grow in clusters of 12-20 berries. Each bush can yeild anywhere from 1-40 lbs. of berries. Aronia berries are purple-dark black in color at harvest, but start out red in color. Aronia Berries are harvested in Iowa between August and September, and can even be harvested after the 1st frost. If a person wants a higher antioxidant content they should pick earlier in the harvest season, but if you want a higher sugar content you should harvest later. These bushes are very easy to grow and maintain. Aronia Bushes are very hardy, they do not require irrigation or tresseling. The bushes are resistent to most disease and pest problems. Aronia Bushes can be enjoyed for many years, most bushes live as long as a lilac bush. Aronia Berries have many beneficial health properties. Aronia Berries have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit/berry measured to date. Research by Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D. indicate Aronia Berries have protective properties related to the liver, anti-inflammatory and ant-tumor responses, and blood sugar stabilization abilities. Aronia Berries have a very distinct pleasant taste. The berries have an astringent, dry mouth puckering effect. The best way to find out is to try some out, my opinion will most likely differ from yours. Aronia Berries are distributed in several forms including fresh, frozen, freeze dryed, powder, and liquid states. Some common uses for Aronia Berries include juice, w**e, jam, syrup, salsa, bread, pie, food coloring/dyes.
