Honeyberry honeyberry Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea) is an exceptionally cold-hardy edible honeysuckle producing elongated, blue, bloom-dusted berries with a flavor reminiscent of blueberry and blackcurrant. It flowers very early (often while frost still occurs) and berries ripen before strawberries in many climates. There are several origins/varieties: Russian (var. kamtschatica), Kuril/Japanese haskap (var. emphyllocalyx), and European (var. edulis). Japanese-type cultivars often have larger, less bitter fruit and improved fruit retention; Russian types can bloom slightly earlier. Mature bushes reach about 1.2–1.8 m tall and wide, bearing 2–5 kg per plant when established. For dependable crops, plant two genetically different cultivars with overlapping bloom (e.g., ‘Aurora’ with ‘Borealis’, or ‘Honeybee’ with ‘Indigo Gem’). Flowers tolerate substantial frost, but pollinators require mild weather; encourage early-season bees to ensure good set. Growing conditions LightFull sun to light partial shade; best yields in full sun. Soil typeMoist but well-drained loam rich in organic matter; tolerates sandy or light clay soils if drainage is good. Water requirementModerate, even moisture. Keep soil consistently damp during establishment and fruit swell; avoid waterlogging. Nutrient requirementModerate. Annual compost or a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer in early spring; avoid excess nitrogen that promotes leafy growth over fruit. Back to plant list
