McKenzie Aronia Berry

Species: Aronia melanocarpa

History: McKenzie was created by the USDA who, in 1976, planted several seedlings of the variety to evaluate its performance. It was named 'McKenzie' in honour of its first planting site in North Dakota, possibly named after McKenzie County specifically. The variety was officially released in 2008.

Why We Grow It: McKenzie boasts vigorous growth and good production, reliably producing firm blue-black fruit that is tart with an earthy taste. The berry clusters are easy to pick and have a wide range of uses!

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 4

Soil Preference: Adaptable to most soils except for shallow chalk or very boggy conditions

Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Shrub reaches 1.5-3m tall, vigorous with a round and upright growth habit, hardy, produces good crops. No notable diseases.

Sun/Shade: Partial shade to full sun (approx. 6-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Self-pollinating, this variety will produce fruit without a different Aronia variety but will produce more and better fruit if one is present    

Flowering Time: Spring

Bloom Colour: White

Ripens: August, but fruit sweetens if left on the bush longer

Storage: Keep about a week in the fridge

Recommended Use: Fresh eating, baking, cooking, jams, jellies, sauce, juice

Height Above Soil Line: 

• 1 year bareroot - 15-45cm
• 2 year bareroot - 45cm+