Common name: Sugar Mountain® Balalaika Sweetberry honeysuckle
Scientific name:
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Lonicera
Species: caerula 'stimul'
Hardiness Zone: 3-6
Height: 5-6 ft
Width: 5-6 ft
Description:
This shrub in native to North America. It has a medium growth rate and mounding form that is easy to maintain. Tolerant to any well-drained soil and average water levels. It is resistant to deer browse.
Flowers occur on the old wood. Pruning is not generally needed. If you choose to prune, it should be done after the shrub has been in the ground for three years and after harvest. The tips of branches can be cut off to encourage lateral branching, which produces more fruit.
Honeysuckle fruit looks like elongated blueberries. They are 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. They have more antioxidants and three times the vitamin C than blueberries. At least two honeysuckles should be planted for cross-pollination and heavier crops. The fruits can be eaten fresh, frozen, or made into jams, pies, and juices.
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