Boreal Beast Haskap

Species: Lonicera caerulea

History: Boreal Beast was developed by Bob Bors at the University of Saskatchewan as part of the Boreal series of haskaps. The goal of the Boreal series is to cross haskaps from Russia, Japan, and the Kuril Islands to create superior cultivars with the best qualities of all three strains. Boreal Beast was rated very highly for flavour in the breeding program. Named after Beauty and the Beast, Boreal Beast is of course the recommended pollination partner for Boreal Beauty. 

Why We Grow It: Boreal Beast is noted for its excellent flavour with a great aroma and pleasant aftertaste. The shrub itself is quite vigorous and sturdy, and produces good-sized crops of delicious medium-sized berries.

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 2

Soil Preference: Prefers average conditions and well-drained soil but is adaptable to anything except clay

Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Shrub grows up to 2m tall, highly vigorous with an upright growth habit. Resistant to powdery mildew.

Sun/Shade: Full sun (approx. 8-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Requires a pollinator of a different haskap variety to produce fruit, Boreal Beast has a long bloom time which makes it a good pollinator for other varieties. Preferred pollinator for Boreal Beauty.

Flowering Time: Middle to Late

Ripens: Early July, let it sit out a few days to ripen further for optimal sweetness

Storage: Keeps about a week when stored in the fridge

Recommended Use: Fresh eating, juice, jelly

Height Above Soil Line:  30cm+