Masha

Blue honeysuckle «Masha» – a variety with large, broadly pear-shaped berries of medium size, which usually reach maturity by the end of June or early July. The berries have a blue coloration and are covered with a medium-intensity waxy bloom, giving them a pleasant shine and protecting them from moisture loss. The taste of the berries is sweet with a slight bitterness, and the aroma is rich, making them attractive both for fresh consumption and for making compotes, jams, and juices.

The variety is characterized by high frost hardiness: the plant can withstand temperature drops to minus 40 °C without damage, and the flowers and ovules easily endure spring frosts down to minus 8 °C. This makes «Masha» a suitable choice for medium and cold climate zones, including the Leningrad region – its homeland. The honeysuckle is resistant to pest damage, including aphids, as well as to diseases, which reduces the need for agrochemical control.

The fruits of «Masha» are rich in biologically active substances: anthocyanins, catechins, leukoanthocyanins, vitamins C and B1, as well as pectin. Thanks to this, they are used as a vessel-strengthening agent for hypertension, as a diuretic and tonic, and their juices are used to treat warts and ulcers. For normal fruiting, cross-pollination is required, however, the self-fertile nature of the variety facilitates care and makes it a convenient option for gardeners with limited time for plant maintenance.