Lonicera kamtschatica 'Leningradskij Velikan' (Leningrad Giant) - Afinul siberian, Boabe de miere

Lonicera kamtschatica 'Leningradskij Velikan' (also known as Edible Honeysuckle 'Leningradskij Velikan', Honeyberry 'Leningrad Giant', Siberian Blueberry or Honey Berries) is one of the most appreciated edible honeysuckle (honeyberry) varieties for gardens in Romania.

It is a vigorous shrub with an upright and compact growth habit, reaching 1.8–2.2 m in height and width. The leaves are oval, dark green, and in autumn they take on beautiful yellow-reddish shades.

The flowers appear early in spring (March-April), small, yellow-cream, and frost-resistant.

The fruits are the highlight of the variety:

• Very large (3–4 cm long), elongated, dark blue with a waxy coating
• Excellent taste: sweet-aromatic, with notes of blueberries and blackberries, slightly acidic
• Early ripening (late May – early June)
• High productivity (up to 4–6 kg of fruit from a mature shrub)
• Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and nutrients

Main features:

• Size: 1.8–2.2 m tall
• Fruits: very large, sweet, early ripening
• Harvest period: late May – June
• Hardiness: excellent cold resistance (tolerates -40°C)
• Self-fertile (but produces more if you plant 2 different varieties)

Easy care:

• Light: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soils, slightly acidic to neutral
• Watering: regular, especially during dry periods
• Pruning: done in winter or immediately after harvest (remove old branches)
• Pollination: recommended to plant near another variety (e.g., 'Jugana', 'Sinij Val', or 'Morena')

Lonicera kamtschatica 'Leningradskij Velikan' is an excellent choice for Romanian gardens as it combines exceptional cold resistance with large, tasty fruits and early ripening. It is ideal for edible hedges, productive plantations, or small gardens.

Pot size: 9 cm

Height including pot: approx. 30-40 cm. Varies depending on the season.

During the summer season, the foliage of these plants is damaged – this is characteristic of the species. In the cold season, it is sold without leaves.