Honeyberry / Haskap 'Berry Blue' (1-gallon container)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Berry Blue' is a honeyberry (also known as haskap) cultivar, a type of edible honeysuckle. It is derived from *Lonicera caerulea*, a species native to northern temperate regions. It was developed to improve fruit quality and yield compared to wild types.
• Patent Status: 'Berry Blue' is a relatively older cultivar, and it is not currently under an active plant patent. It is widely available for propagation and sale.
• Berry Production: 'Berry Blue' produces medium-sized, elongated, blue-skinned berries. The berries have a unique sweet-tart flavor, often described as a mix of blueberry, raspberry, and black currant. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. The fruit is suitable for fresh eating, processing, and freezing.
• Ripening Time: 'Berry Blue' is an early-season ripening honeyberry, typically maturing its fruit in **late spring to early summer**, often before strawberries.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Berry Blue' is a deciduous shrub with a compact, bushy growth habit. It typically reaches a mature height and spread of 3-5 feet. It has small, oval, bluish-green leaves.
• Flowers: Produces small, creamy white flowers in early spring. These flowers are very cold-tolerant and can withstand late frosts.
• Hardiness: 'Berry Blue' is extremely cold-hardy, generally suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 7, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
• Pollination: Honeyberries require cross-pollination for fruit set. 'Berry Blue' is not a good pollinator for itself and needs to be planted with another compatible honeyberry cultivar. Recommended pollinators include 'Borealis', 'Aurora', or other early-blooming varieties.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun for optimal fruit production, but can tolerate some partial shade.
  • Soil: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). It can tolerate a range of soil types but dislikes waterlogged conditions.
  • Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
  • Fertilizing: Benefits from light fertilization in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
  • Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is typically required.
• Uses: The berries are excellent for:
  • Fresh eating.
  • Making jams, jellies, and preserves.
  • Baking in pies, muffins, and other desserts.
  • Freezing for later use.
  • Juice and wine production.
• Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds.
• Ornamental Value: 'Berry Blue' offers ornamental appeal with its early spring flowers, attractive foliage, and blue berries. It can be grown as a specimen plant or in a mixed shrub border.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: Honeyberries are generally resistant to most common diseases and pests. Occasional issues like powdery mildew may occur but are usually not severe.