Honeysuckle Shmel

The Smely currant variety is a hardy, medium-sized shrub with a spherical crown, reaching heights from 0.9 to 1.4 meters. The branches are spreading with a reddish tint, while the leaves are light green and elongated. The flowers are small, light yellow, gathered in pairs in inflorescences, possess a pleasant aroma, and attract bees, ensuring cross-pollination. The plant exhibits high frost resistance, withstanding temperatures down to -46 °C, which allows for cultivation without shelter during winter. The Smely currant fruits are large, spindle-shaped, dark blue or purple in color with a waxy bloom. The berries weigh from 1.1 to 1.5 grams, with a length of about 2 cm. The berries have a sour-sweet and juicy taste with a slight bitterness, giving them a special piquancy. The medium-density skin ensures good transportability and low fruit drop. The yield is high — up to 3–3.5 kg of berries can be collected from one bush, with the first fruits appearing as early as 1–2 years after planting, and full fruiting beginning from 3–4 years. Smely currant prefers neutral or slightly acidic soils with a pH from 5.5 to 6.5, grows well on sandy, clay, and loamy soils. Successful cultivation requires moderate watering and good lighting. The culture is resistant to diseases and pests, does not require frequent pruning in the first years, and withstands drought well. The berries are rich in vitamin C, group B vitamins, carotene, anthocyanins, and pectin fibers, making them valuable for fresh consumption as well as for processing into juices, compotes, jams, and preserves. The plant lives up to 25–30 years and requires regular care, including organic fertilizer application, mulching, and preventive protection against fungal diseases.