Haskaps (lonicera caerulea) are tough, compact shrubs. They are native to the boreal forests of the world, with a range stretching across Siberia, Northern Japan, and Canada. They have been cultivated for centuries in Japan and are a popular berry there today.

Interest in haskap cultivation is exploding in Canada and just waking up here in the states. The berries are small blue ovals that taste something like a cross between a blueberry and a rasberry. They are excellent fresh, dried, frozen , in preserves, juice, or wine.

The plants reach a height and width of 4-6 feet. They are not fussy about soils, and they begin bearing at a very young age. The fruits ripen extremely early, about 2 weeks before strawberries.

Two varieties required for pollination

Varieties

Indigo Gem- Excellent flavor, medium sized berries, vigorous grower

Bluebelle- Most vigorous growing haskap, average flavor, small berries

Blue Bird- Very good flavor, earliest ripening, small berries, easy to grow