Lonicera caerulea – Honeyberry; Haskap

General Information: Lonicera caerulea is a medium-sized deciduous shrub that produces an abundance of delectable fruit, somewhat resembling Blueberries. Although these plants are in the same genus as vining Honeysuckles, they grow as non-aggressive shrubs. Commonly known by several common names including Blue Honeysuckle, Honeyberry, Sweet Berry Honeysuckle, and Haskap; these plants are native to circumpolar moist Boreal Forest areas. This heavily fruit-bearing plant requires little special care once a proper site is selected. An abundance of pale yellowish-white ½ inch-long flowers emerge in late spring and can persist until early summer with some varieties. The unique cylindrical fruits occur in early summer. They are deep blue with reddish-purple insides. These fruits ripen very early, at the same time as Strawberries.

Edible Qualities: The oblong fruits taste like a cross between a Raspberry and a Blueberry. They are excellent when eaten fresh and added to desserts. Different varieties have been selected for unique applications, including fresh eating, making preserves, and making wines. Throughout most of their range, these extremely cold-hardy plants are some of the earliest-blooming and earliest-fruiting fruit crops available. In Zones 4-8, these plants tend to fruit in June. Regions with longer winters, typically Zones 2 and 3 or areas very high in elevation, often see fruiting occur in July. At maturity, these plants can produce several pounds of fruit per season. See the drop-down menu for more information on fruit characteristics.

Cultivation Details: These plants are not self-fertile. Two cultivars with similar bloom times are required. See the drop-down menu for more details. At maturity, the plant reaches 4-6’ tall and wide, depending on the cultivar. Makes an interesting hedge plant. Prune as necessary right after the shrub has finished fruiting. These plants will not sucker as many other fruit-bearing shrubs do. Deer tend to avoid this plant. No known serious insect or disease problems, however they may develop Powdery Mildew in years with very warm and wet summers. Shrubs will show some drought tolerance only after root systems are well-established. Consider adding to food forests, as a foundation or border planting, or as specimen plants.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils. Prefers full sun in northern regions but requires partial (morning or afternoon) shade in areas with hot summers (Zones 6-8). Mulch plants well in full sun. Tolerates most soil conditions. Especially tolerant of clay soils. For very sandy soils, consider a heavy mulch or amendment with organic matter. Prefers acidic soils, but tolerates neutral and mildly alkaline soils.