Honeyberry, Haskap, Keiko

Haskap Honeyberry 'Keiko' (Lonicera caerulea)

'Keiko' is a vigorous and high-yielding Haskap honeyberry variety prized for its large, sweet-tart berries that ripen in late spring to early summer. Extremely cold-hardy and disease-resistant, this shrub thrives in northern climates where other berries struggle. Its early-spring blooms provide an important nectar source for pollinators, and its nutrient-rich fruit is perfect for fresh eating, preserves, and baking. Compact and low-maintenance, 'Keiko' is ideal for food forests, edible hedgerows, and permaculture plantings.

Key Characteristics

• Large, Flavorful, Nutrient-Dense Berries
  'Keiko' produces elongated, deep blue berries with a juicy, sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of blueberries and raspberries. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, these early-ripening berries are excellent for fresh eating, freezing, and making jams or desserts.

• Early Blooming & Cold Hardy
  Thriving in USDA zones 2-7, 'Keiko' flowers in early spring (March-April) and is one of the first fruits to ripen in the season (May-June). Its frost-resistant blooms support pollinators when few other plants are flowering.

• Cross-Pollination for High Yields
  Haskaps require a compatible pollination partner for fruit set. Plant 'Keiko' with another honeyberry variety that blooms at the same time, such as 'Taka' or 'Yezberry Solo,' for optimal berry production.

• Low-Maintenance & Versatile for Edible Landscaping
  This compact shrub (growing 4-6 ft tall) is excellent for food forests, orchard understories, hedgerows, and home gardens. It thrives in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade and resists most pests and diseases.

Product Details

• Native Range: Northern Hemisphere (Russia, Japan, Canada)
• Plant Life Cycle: Perennial Shrub
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium, Well-Drained
• Mature Height: 4-6 ft
• Bloom Time: March-April
• Bloom Color: Pale Yellow
• Fruit Qualities: Sweet-tart, juicy, high in antioxidants
• Fruit Uses: Fresh eating, jams, baking, freezing, smoothies
• Fruit Ripening Month: May-June
• Pollination Requirements: Requires another compatible honeyberry variety for cross-pollination
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-7

With its delicious berries, extreme cold-hardiness, and pollinator-friendly blooms, 'Keiko' is a top choice for gardeners looking to extend their fruit season. Its adaptability makes it a standout in both home gardens and larger permaculture plantings.