Pirika Honeyberry
One of the latest flowering and ripening honeyberries, Pirika Honeyberry produces large honeyberries that often are a bit sweeter than earlier varieties thanks to the added warmth later in spring.
Late Blooming Honeyberry Varieties
These varieties bloom up to 2 months later in the NW region than the early blooming varieties. Later blooming means that more bees and other insects are available for pollination and fruit set is significantly better. These varieties are also good for east of the Cascade Mountains, and other colder regions of the US.
Latin Name: Lonicera caerulea
Site and Soil: Honeyberry likes 1/2 day to full sun in the Pacific Northwest and other cool regions, partial shade in hot regions, and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description:
Pollination Requirements: Two varieties with similar bloom time are needed for cross-pollination.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 40º F.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 5 ft by 5 ft
Taste: Sweet
Fruit Skin: Blue
Fruit Size: Large
Bloom Time: March
Ripening Time: June
Yield: 5-10 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Pirika Honeyberry is not bothered by many pests or diseases, though powdery mildew is often present on leaves later in summer. To deter birds, use mylar flash tape or cover plants with netting.
USDA Zone: 3
Sunset Western Zone: A1-A3; 1-3
Sunset Northeast Zone: 31-45