Lonicera caerulea var. kamtschatica Kamtschatica Fialka

Lonicera kamtschatica Fialka, also known as Honeyberry Fialka, is a late variety that bears fruit in June. Hardy up to -40°C (-40°F) and robust, this slow-growing honeysuckle produces elongated, bluish-purple berries called pruines. Rich in vitamins C and B, their flesh is tangy, fruity, and deliciously sweet. The flavour of the berries is revitalising and falls somewhere between kiwi and blueberry. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in cooking. The unique bush Lonicera kamtschatica Fialka should be planted in pairs for cross-pollination.

Lonicera kamtschatica, or Honeyberry, is an edible honeysuckle that has been known for a long time by the indigenous people of the regions where it grows naturally: in the boreal forests of Siberia and Northern Europe. It was first mentioned in the late 17th century by a Russian explorer, Vladimir Atlasov. Its cultivation in the northern regions of Russia began under the guidance of Peter Kuzmisev in the early 19th century. The first selections were made by Professor T. D. Mauritc to improve the fruit's taste qualities. In the 1950s, large-scale work continued these initial selections, resulting in the development of Lonicera kamtschatica Fialka in the 1980s.

Lonicera kamtschatica belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is a non-climbing bush that does not exceed 1.30m (4ft) in height. It can withstand very harsh temperatures ,down to -40°C (-40°F)!, but on the other hand, it does not tolerate prolonged drought well. It does not like overly chalky soils. With an erect and bushy habit, numerous branches radiate from an elongated main 'trunk', giving the plant a compact appearance.
Its foliage is deciduous. The bluish-green leaves are ovate and elongated, arranged opposite each other.
Its inconspicuous and unscented flowering occurs in March. The tubular flowers grow in pairs on the shoots. They can withstand temperatures as low as -7°C (19.4°F).
The fruits ripen in early June, despite their name 'Honeyberry', as this variety is late. They are elongated, about 1.5cm (1in) long and 0.5cm (0.2in) in diameter, weighing approximately 1g. Their skin is blackish with a waxy blue appearance.

The flowers, although hermaphroditic, are weakly self-fertile. Therefore, at least two plants are required to ensure good fruiting. Pollination is entomophilous, with bumblebees and bees being recognised as its best pollinators.

The fruit is consumed fresh, thanks to its delicious sweet and tangy flavour. It also adapts perfectly to processing: jams, jellies, pastries, fruit juice, yogurts... When cooked, the fruit takes on a mahogany red colour.