Haskap - Boreal Blizzard (Lonicera caerulea 'Boreal Blizzard')

The Boreal Blizzard Haskap is a cultivar of Lonicera caerulea, celebrated for its exceptionally large and sweet berries. This variety typically grows to a height of 4 to 5 feet with a similar spread, making it a prominent feature in any garden. It is hardy in USDA zones 2 through 7, highlighting its superb adaptability to cold climates, including many areas in Canada. The Boreal Blizzard Haskap prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil and performs best in full sun, though it can also adapt to partial shade.

One of the most notable features of this variety is its very large, dark blue berries, which are among the biggest of the haskap cultivars. They ripen in early summer and are known for their rich, sweet flavor, ideal for both fresh consumption and a variety of culinary uses such as in jams, baking, or beverages. This cultivar is also recognized for its high yield and consistent fruit quality.

Haskaps, in general, have a rich history, originating from regions in Asia and Eastern Europe. They are valued for their hardiness, early fruiting season, and nutritional benefits. The Boreal Beast Haskap, with its large berries and robust flavor, is a result of a breeding program at U of Sask, aimed at enhancing berry size and taste while maintaining the plant's natural hardiness. This makes it a particularly appealing choice for gardeners in cooler climates looking for reliable fruit production.

Just a few plants available for this year, we got on as one of the U of Sask's breeders in the fall of 2023.