Lonicera kamtschatica – Berry Blue (Czech 17)

Berry Blue is an essential pollinator for Indigo Gem, Indigo Treat, and Tundra. A 1:5 ratio of Berry Blue to other varieties is sufficient, provided Berry Blue is included. This Russian selection, also known as Czech 17 (P-17), has an extended flowering period of up to 8 weeks. If planting only two varieties, ensure one is Berry Blue.

These compact, small European bushes are the first fruits to ripen at our nursery. Hardy and resilient, they thrive in Siberia and perform best in colder zones (3, 4, and 5). While their flowers are neither showy nor scented like traditional honeysuckle vines, their blue, tart, and flavorful fruits ripen earlier than strawberries.

In areas prone to late frosts, Berry Blue can be a shy producer. Known also as Honeyberry and Haskap, this edible honeysuckle is a low-maintenance addition to any landscape. Ideal for colder climates, it thrives in USDA Zones 3–7 and should be spaced 4 feet apart.

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: Very Good
• Salt Tolerance: Poor
• Fresh for Kids: Fair
• Thorns: None
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Soil Type: Adaptable
• Edible Type: Fruit
• Self-Fertile: No

Additional Notes

Due to import restrictions, Berry Blue (Czech 17) cannot be shipped to California.

This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Comments and opinions are always welcome!

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).