Honeyberry

Honeyberries

Honeyberries (Lonicera caerulea), also known as haskaps or blue honeysuckle, are deciduous shrubs that produce elongated, blue berries with a unique flavor. They belong to the Caprifoliaceae family, which also includes elderberries and honeysuckle.

Starting Plants

Honeyberries are typically purchased as bare-root or container-grown plants, as they are difficult to propagate from seeds or cuttings. Plant honeyberries in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. They require cross-pollination, so plant at least two varieties for fruit production.

Planting Time

Plant container-grown or bare-root honeyberries in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. Space plants 3-5 feet apart, depending on the variety.

Harvesting

Honeyberries typically begin producing fruit 2-3 years after planting. Berries are ready to harvest in late spring to early summer when they have turned deep blue and are slightly soft. Gently pull the berries from the stems and collect them in a container. Honeyberry plants can produce fruit for 20-30 years with proper care.

Seed Harvesting

Honeyberries are not typically grown from seed, as they do not produce true-to-type offspring and can take several years to bear fruit.

Commonly Grown Varieties

Some popular honeyberry varieties include:

• Tundra: A high-yielding, early-ripening variety with large, flavorful berries.
• Borealis: A productive, cold-hardy variety with large, sweet berries.
• Aurora: A compact variety with large, flavorful berries and attractive foliage.
• Indigo Gem: A variety with large, firm berries and good disease resistance.

Culinary Uses

Honeyberries have a unique flavor often described as a blend of blueberry, raspberry, and kiwi:

• Fresh honeyberries: Eat fresh as a snack or add to fruit salads, yogurt, or cereals.
• Honeyberry jam: Cook honeyberries with sugar and pectin for a flavorful, spreadable jam.
• Honeyberry sauce: Simmer honeyberries with sugar and spices for a sauce to pair with desserts or breakfast dishes.
• Honeyberry pie: Use fresh or frozen honeyberries in a sweet, fruity pie filling.
• Honeyberry smoothie: Blend fresh or frozen honeyberries with yogurt and other fruits for a nutritious drink.