These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
1-gallon container.
Key Characteristics of Indigo Gem Honeyberry:
Origin: 'Indigo Gem' is a popular cultivar of Lonicera caerulea, commonly known as honeyberry or haskap. It was developed at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada as part of their extensive honeyberry breeding program. It's known for its improved fruit quality and plant characteristics compared to older varieties.
Patent Status: 'Indigo Gem' Honeyberry is not listed as being covered by Plant Breeders' Rights as of 2025-03-29 https://active.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/pbrpov/cropreport/gsle.shtml
Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, elongated, dark blue berries with a powdery bloom. The berries have a unique sweet-tart flavor, often described as a blend of blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry with a slightly tangy finish. It is considered a reliable and good producer.
Ripening Time: One of the earlier ripening honeyberry varieties, typically maturing in late spring to early summer (around late May to June), often before strawberries. This early harvest is a significant advantage.
Plant Size and Appearance: A compact, upright, deciduous shrub that typically reaches a mature height and spread of 3 to 5 feet. It has small, oval, bluish-green leaves. The plant has a neat and tidy growth habit.
Flowers: In early spring, it produces small, inconspicuous, greenish-white, tubular flowers. While not as showy as elderberry flowers, they are important for attracting early pollinators.
Hardiness: Exceptionally hardy, typically growing well in USDA Zones 2 through 9, making it suitable for very cold climates. This is a major advantage of honeyberries.
Pollination: Indigo Gem is not self-pollinating and requires a compatible pollinator variety planted nearby (within about 50 feet) for good fruit set. Recommended pollinator partners for 'Indigo Gem' include 'Aurora', 'Borealis', and 'Tundra'. Planting at least two different compatible varieties is crucial for a good harvest.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production. It can tolerate some partial shade, but this may reduce yield.
Soil: Adaptable to a range of soil types but thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter. Good drainage is important to prevent root rot.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
Pruning: Generally requires minimal pruning in the early years. As the plant matures, prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to maintain an open shape for good air circulation and light penetration.
Uses: The berries are versatile and can be used for:
Fresh eating (their early ripening makes them a welcome addition to the early fruit season)
Jams and jellies
Pies, muffins, and other baked goods
Smoothies
Juices
Wine and other beverages They freeze well, allowing for year-round enjoyment.
Wildlife Value: The early flowers attract early-season pollinators. The berries are also a food source for birds, although some gardeners find that birds are less attracted to honeyberries than other fruits.
Ornamental Value: While primarily grown for its fruit, Indigo Gem has a neat and compact growth habit that can make it a suitable addition to edible landscapes or borders. Its bluish-green foliage also provides some visual interest.
Disease and Pest Resistance: Honeyberries, including 'Indigo Gem', are generally quite resistant to common pests and diseases, making them a relatively low-maintenance fruit to grow.
