Lonicera caerulea kamtschatica Duet - Honeyberry

Lonicera kamtschatica Duet is a variety that produces elongated berries, 2 cm (0.8 in) in size, which are a blue colour with a honey-like smell. They have a tart taste similar to blueberries and kiwis, and can be consumed fresh or used in jams, jellies, and juices. It is recommended to plant at least two bushes for good fruiting. It is a hardy bush shrub. Planting can be done in autumn or spring for harvesting in May and June.

Lonicera kamtschatica is a bushy shrub reaching a height of 1 to 1.50 meters (3 feet to 5 feet) and a width of 1 meter (3 feet 4 inches). This shrub is native to Siberia and is very hardy, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -40°C (-40 °F). It belongs to the Caprofoliaceae family and the Lonicera species, like honeysuckle. Its deciduous leaves are ovate and elongated.

Flowering for this variety occurs as early as March, with small yellow flowers which then transform into small blue fruits around May. These berries frosted and have an elongated shape, approximately 2 cm long and 0.5 cm (0.2 in) in diameter. They have a tart taste similar to blueberries and kiwis. Rich in vitamins B and C, they can be consumed fresh, used in jams, jellies, juices, or frozen. When cooked, the flesh turns a mahogany red colour.

In the garden, Lonicera kamtschatica can be grown as a hedge or in flower beds. It thrives in moist soils but is sensitive to dry and chalky soils. To ensure proper pollination and fruiting, it is recommended to plant at least two bushes.