Habitat:The choke cherry is a
pioneer species usually found on open sites with rich, moist soils. Because
birds distribute the seeds, this species is common on the borders of woods,
in sunny clearings and along fencerows.
Diseases: Like most plants of the rose family, this species is susceptible to many pests and diseases. The fungus-caused black knot disease often disfigures the trees with black, irregular swellings which lead to plant dieback. Tent caterpillars can defoliate the entire tree.
Distribution: This is one of the most widely distributed large shrubs or small trees in North America, occurring from Newfoundland to Saskatchewan, south to New England, North Carolina, Tennessee, Missouri and Kansas. It is native throughout Iowa.
