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Silver Buffalo Berry vs Indigo Gem Haskap (Honeyberry)
Shepherdia argentea
Lonicera caerulea Indigo Gem
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
Silver Buffalo Berry is a cold hardy, ornamental shrub that is commonly used in the first row of shelterbelts instead of caragana or lilac. It features subtle yellow flowers, smooth grey bark, and red fruit. On occasion orange fruit is produced and rarely a yellow fruit. Please note: we regularly collect the rare yellow and orange fruit to use for our seed source.
Long-lived and slow growing, Silver Buffalo Berry is commonly found around sloughs, in coulees, and on light soils across the prairies, and grows best in full sun.
Buyers can enjoy increased bird life to their property, as this shrub acts as a habitat plant. It is also commonly planted for its ornamental and winter interest. It is native to parts of central and western North America.
This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.
Note: this berry has mixed reviews when fresh, but makes a desirable jam or jelly with what is described as a clove and pear taste.
Indigo Gem Haskap produces firm, sweet/tangy berries. The flavour of Haskaps is generally described as a cross between a blueberry and a raspberry. Indigo Gem Haskaps are well suited to fresh eating, freezing, baking, and preserves.
The fruit is similar in size and firmness to the Tundra variety, making it suitable for commercial production or your home garden.
For optimal fruit production, cross-pollination is required. Haskaps need to be planted with a compatible variety. Compatibility is influenced by both bloom time and genetics.
Indigo Gem Haskap is an early-pollinating variety that pairs well with Aurora and Honey Bee.
Silver Buffalo Berry Quick Facts
Indigo Gem Haskap (Honeyberry) Quick Facts
In row spacing: 0.9 - 1.2 m (3 - 4 ft)