Lonicera caerulea aka Blue Honeysuckle

Taxonomy

Lonicera caerulea, commonly known as blue honeysuckle, sweetberry honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, blue-berried honeysuckle, or honeyberry, is a non-climbing deciduous shrub native to cool temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It can reach heights of up to 2.5m and features paired, ovate green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Following the flowers, the shrub produces edible berries that are blue-black and oblong-shaped, developing a white bloom when they are ready for harvesting. This circumpolar plant thrives in moist boreal forest areas, particularly in peaty soils, across northern temperate climates. Unlike other honeysuckle species, Lonicera caerulea bears delicious blueberry-like fruits. It typically grows 4-6' tall and wide, with glaucous green leaves and pale yellowish-white flowers that appear in pairs along the shoots. The fruits ripen in early summer, displaying a deep blue color with reddish-purple insides. However, it's worth noting that the plant is considered invasive in North America and should be handled with caution.

Common names

Blue Honeysuckle, Sweetberry Honeysuckle, Haskap Berry

How to care for Blue Honeysuckle

Difficulty

Blue Honeysuckle presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Blue Honeysuckle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Blue Honeysuckle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Blue Honeysuckle thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Haskap Berry.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Blue Honeysuckle should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Blue Honeysuckle’s native range is N.E. Europe. Northern N. America - Newfoundland to Alaska and southwards.


More info:
Wikipedia