Berry Blue honeyberry (haskap)

Name: Berry Blue honeyberry, also known as Czech 17 honeyberry

Botanical name: Lonicera caerulea 'Berry Blue'

Light requirements: Berry Blue honeyberry performs best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It needs several hours of sunlight each day for optimal fruit production and growth.

Soil and watering needs: This plant prefers well-drained, moist soil. It's not particularly drought-tolerant, so regular watering is important, especially during dry periods and when the plant is establishing itself.

Description: Berry Blue honeyberry, or haskap, is a deciduous shrub known for its elongated, blueberry-like fruit. The berries have a unique, sweet-tangy flavor and are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. The shrub typically grows 4 to 6 feet tall and wide, with a bushy habit. It produces small, creamy-white flowers in early spring, followed by the fruit in late spring to early summer. It's also known as Czech 17 honeyberry or haskap. Honeyberries require a pollinator. This cultivar pairs well with any of the Indigo varieties and with Cinderella that we usually carry.

Medicinal and other uses: The berries are not only delicious fresh but can also be used in jams, jellies, and baking. They're known for their high vitamin C content and potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Origin and distribution: The Berry Blue honeyberry is a cultivar of Lonicera caerulea, native to cooler climates in the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Russia, Japan, and Canada. It's well-suited for cold climates and is hardy in many regions where traditional fruiting plants may struggle.

Interesting facts: Honeyberries are among the first fruits to ripen in the season, often available before strawberries. They're known for their resilience to pests and diseases, making them an excellent choice for organic or low-maintenance gardening. Berry Blue is often planted alongside another early season honeyberry variety for cross-pollination, which improves fruit yield.

Ideal conditions and care: Berry Blue honeyberry requires minimal care once established. It benefits from pruning to shape the bush and remove any dead or diseased wood. While it's cold-hardy, providing some mulch around the base can help protect the roots in extremely cold environments. This isn't necessary in the Pacific Northwest US. Watch this video for more information about growing and pruning honeyberry bushes!