Oregon-Grown Haskaps

What are haskaps?

The fruit of the lonicera caerulea (“blue honeysuckle”) has been enjoyed in northern Russian and Japan for centuries, and is an exciting new crop for U.S. growers and gardeners. Several superior varieties have recently been developed from Japanese stock, subspecies emphyllocalyx, and we offer a few which were developed by plant breeder Dr. Maxine Thompson, Professor Emeritus, from Oregon State University.

Read more about the differences between Russian and Japanese cultivars.

The blue, oval berries have a flavor that is a tangy blend of raspberry, blueberry, and currant. The skins are tender, and the seeds are small and unnoticeable. They are ready for harvest early in the season, ripening in most locations at about the same time as strawberries.

What are haskaps used for?

The uses of haskaps are as varied as any other berry: pies & crisps, jams & chutneys, ice cream & smoothies, salads & sauces, wines & liqueurs.

What is the nutritional value of haskaps?

The nutritional value of haskaps is exceptional. They are known in Japan as the “berry of long life and good vision.” Haskaps are extremely high in antioxidants, surpassing black currants in their powerful array of anthocyanins, polyphenols and bioflavanoids.

The upright, spreading shrubs are cold-hardy and disease-resistant. The Japanese varieties we offer are more adaptable than the Russian varieties to the somewhat variable winter and early spring weather in the northern US states, able to thrive in Zones 2-7.