Figure 68. Chokecherry. In 2007, former Governor John Hoeven signed a bill naming the chokecherry the official fruit of the state of North Dakota.
STATE FRUIT. In 2007, the Legislative Assembly made the chokecherry the official state fruit of North Dakota. The chokecherry grows wild in all parts of North Dakota. The dark-red berry is a popular fruit for making jelly, syrup, and wine. The chokecherry is also an important food for birds and other wildlife. The idea of naming the chokecherry the official state fruit came from Williston elementary students.