16 Types of Chokeberries / Aronia Berries

Chokeberries, scientifically known as Aronia spp., are deciduous shrubs native to North America and are increasingly recognized worldwide as both ornamental plants and a source of nutrient-rich fruit. Despite their common name, they are not closely related to true berries but instead belong to the Rosaceae family, the same as apples and cherries. The fruits … Read more

Chokeberries / Aronia berries: History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification Chokeberries, commonly known as Aronia berries, belong to the genus Aronia in the family Rosaceae, the same family that includes apples, pears, and cherries. The most widely cultivated and consumed species is Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry), though Aronia arbutifolia (red chokeberry) and Aronia prunifolia (purple chokeberry) are also recognized. They are deciduous shrubs … Read more

Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa): History, Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification Kiwifruit, commonly known as kiwi, belongs to the genus Actinidia within the family Actinidiaceae. The primary commercial species are Actinidia deliciosa (green kiwi) and Actinidia chinensis (golden or yellow kiwi), though over 70 species exist in the genus. Originally classified as Actinidia chinensis, the green kiwi was later distinguished as A. deliciosa due … Read more

Huckleberry vs Blueberry: What Is The Difference?

Huckleberry A huckleberry is a small, edible berry that grows on perennial shrubs in the heath family (Ericaceae), primarily within the genera Vaccinium and Gaylussacia. The term “huckleberry” is somewhat regional and can refer to different species depending on location, but it generally describes wild-growing berries found in North America. Huckleberries are usually round, about … Read more

Huckleberry: History, Facts & Cultivation

Botanical Classification Huckleberry is a common name used in North America for several species of small fruit-bearing shrubs belonging to the family Ericaceae, which also includes blueberries and cranberries. The term primarily applies to plants in two closely related genera: Gaylussacia and Vaccinium. Key species in the Gaylussacia genus include the common huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), … Read more

American Elm (Ulmus americana): History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification The American Elm, scientifically classified as Ulmus americana within the Ulmaceae family, is a deciduous tree belonging to the genus Ulmus. This places it in the broader botanical hierarchy of the kingdom Plantae, under the clade of tracheophytes, angiosperms, eudicots, and rosids in the order Rosales. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus … Read more

White Oak (Quercus alba): History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification The White Oak (Quercus alba) is one of the most iconic and revered hardwood trees native to North America. It belongs to the genus Quercus in the family Fagaceae, which encompasses all oaks, beeches, and chestnuts. Its full botanical classification is as follows:Kingdom: PlantaeOrder: FagalesFamily: FagaceaeGenus: QuercusSpecies: Quercus alba Other names for White … Read more

Pin Oak (Quercus palustris): History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification The Pin Oak, scientifically known as Quercus palustris, is a distinctive and widely planted member of the red oak group in North America. The Pin Oak is known for its unique pyramidal shape, fast growth, and adaptability, making it a favorite for both landscaping and reforestation efforts. Its botanical classification is as follows:Kingdom: … Read more

Red Oak (Quercus rubra): History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification The Red Oak, known scientifically as Quercus rubra, is a stately and widespread deciduous tree native to North America. Though often called simply “Red Oak,” the full common name Northern Red Oak helps distinguish it from other oak species that may exhibit reddish foliage or wood. It belongs to a large and ecologically … Read more

English Oak (Quercus robur): History, Identifying Characteristics & Cultivation

Botanical Classification English Oak, scientifically known as Quercus robur, is one of the most iconic and culturally significant trees in Europe. It is often referred to by other names such as Common Oak, Pedunculate Oak, or simply European Oak. Its botanical name, robur, is derived from Latin and means “strength” or “hardwood,” a testament to … Read more