Propagation ofAroniaby seed, cuttings, tissue culture and grafting©

Abstract

Aronia spp. are an important group of plants because they have great potential as ornamental landscape plants and as a novel fruit crop with nutraceutical properties. Aronia species are native to many parts of the eastern United States, especially the Northeast. They are deciduous shrubs that make outstanding landscape plants due to their multi-season interest in the form of white spring flowers, black or red fruit in summer and fall, and orange or red fall foliage color. They are also adaptable plants that tolerate a range of challenging environmental conditions and require little landscape care. The dark-fruited species of Aronia have been promoted as a new fruit crop for the United States and appear to hold considerable potential in this capacity (Secher, 2008). Aronia berries have the highest levels of antioxidants of any fruit and contain high levels of anthocyanins and polyphenolics (Benvenuti et al., 2004; Wu et al., 2004). Studies indicate that Aronia juice and polyphenol-rich extracts possess a wide range of bioactivities, including modulation of endothelial function, blood cholesterol levels, inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure (Jurgonski et al., 2008; Naruszewicz et al., 2007; Valcheva-Kuzmanova et al., 2007; Li et al., 2012). Aronia has been widely grown in Eastern Europe and Russia where the fruits are processed and used in beverages, wine, jelly, and baked goods (Kask, 1987). Production of Aronia berries in the United States has been increasing, with acreage in the Midwest exceeding 1000 hectares and two million plants (communication from Midwest Aronia Association).