The Borealis Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea ‘Borealis’) is a very hardy fruit shrub, developed for northern climates. It produces elongated dark blue berries with a rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor, reminiscent of a blend of blueberry and raspberry.
Harvesting typically begins in late June or early July in Quebec, before blueberries. The fruits are excellent fresh, in jams, juices, or pastries.
It develops into a compact and well-branched shrub, ideal for the vegetable garden or a small fruit hedge.
⚠️ Cross-pollination required: for optimal production, it must be planted with another compatible variety (e.g., ‘Aurora’, ‘Honeybee’, ‘Indigo Gem’, etc.).
In spring, its discreet flowers are visited by pollinators, especially bees, which promotes good fruiting.
Botanical name: Lonicera caerulea ‘Borealis’
Type: Fruit shrub
Flowering: Spring
Harvest: Late June to early July
Fruit: Dark blue, elongated
Flavor: Sweet and slightly tart
Height: 1.2 to 1.5 m
Width: 1 to 1.5 m
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained
Hardiness: Zone 2
The Borealis Honeyberry is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, productive, and very hardy northern small fruit, perfectly suited to Quebec conditions.