Botanical profile

Lonicera caerulea 'Borealis'

Latin name
Lonicera caerulea 'Borealis'
Common name
Honeyberry 'Borealis'
Type
Fruit shrub
Family
Caprifoliaceae

Lonicera caerulea 'Borealis', also known as 'Borealis' honeyberry, is a deciduous fruit shrub with an upright and vigorous habit, recognized for the exceptionally large size of its fruits and its great hardiness. Very well-suited to northern climates, it blooms early in spring with small, creamy white flowers that are resistant to late frosts. From early summer, it produces an abundant harvest of elongated dark blue fruits, among the largest of the honeyberry varieties. Its dense bluish-green foliage makes it an excellent choice for a fruiting hedge or an edible bed. Lonicera caerulea 'Borealis' prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly fertile soil. A compatible variety is required to ensure effective pollination and maximize production.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, keep the soil cool during fruiting
Fertilization
Compost in spring to support production
Soil type
Well-drained, slightly fertile
Minimum temperature
-45°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Very large, dark blue fruits, tender and juicy flesh, rich sweet-tart flavor
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Vigorous upright growth, dense productive habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
4.9 ft (1.5 m)
Width
4.9 ft (1.5 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Honeyberry
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.