Lonicera caerulea (Indigo Gem Honeyberry)

Indigo Gem Honeyberry is a compact, hardy shrub native to Europe. It is one of the first fruits to ripen at the nursery and thrives in colder climates, even in Siberia. While its flowers are not as showy or fragrant as those of other honeysuckle varieties, its blue fruits are flavorful and delicious. Tart and flavorful, they ripen even before strawberries. Also known as Honeyberry, this easy-care shrub makes a great addition to any landscape.

Planting Information

• Zones: 3-7
• Space: 4' circle
• Size: Compact shrub

Indigo Gem produces large fruits with a sweet, tangy flavor. This cultivar is productive, making it ideal for both fresh consumption and processing.

Plant Characteristics

• Pest Resistance: Excellent
• Disease Resistance: Excellent
• Drought Tolerance: Good
• Heat Tolerance: Good
• Humidity Tolerance: Very Good
• Sun Tolerance: Very Good
• Wet Soil Tolerance: Poor
• Shade Tolerance: Good
• No Spray Requirement: Very Good
• Salt Tolerance: Poor
• Fresh for Kids: Fair
• Thorns: No
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Soil Type: Adaptable
• Edible Type: Fruit
• Self-Fertile: No

Note:
Due to import restrictions, Indigo Gem Honeyberry cannot be shipped to California.

Edible Honeysuckle Care Guide

Edible Honeysuckle are among the first fruits of the season
A unique member of the Honeysuckle family native to Eastern Siberia. This very hardy deciduous species has been a valued fruiting plant for ages and yet is virtually unknown in Europe and America. An attractive small bush, it produces tasty small fruits about the size and flavor of blueberries. Small white, slightly fragrant flowers appear in March. Fruit ripens two weeks before strawberries. Very easy to grow with no pest or disease problems.

Site & Soil
Edible Honeysuckle is a shade-loving plant in all areas except the far north, where it is happy in full sun. It prefers moderately well-drained, yet moist, soil. Mulching with compost, peat moss or decomposed manure helps maintain adequate soil moisture.

Pollination
Honeysuckle is not self-fertile. Plant at least two varieties if fruit is desired. When we ship we sent two different types.

Bearing age
1-2 years after planting.

Hardiness

Honeysuckle bush in snow

One of the hardiest fruiting plants, to minus 40*F minus 40*C (zone3).