Blackthorn - Prunus spinosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Edible)

Blackthorn

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a large deciduous shrub species that is also commonly called a sloe. Blackthorn is indigenous to Europe, Asia, and Africa. In Britain, this species is used to make a liquor called sloe gin. In Ireland, its wood is made into walking sticks.

Scientific classification

Species

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

4 m to 8 m

Plant Height

4 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue, Purple

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, White, Black

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blackthorn

Culture

Garden Use

Blackthorn is a fast-growing tree or shrub that is popularly cultivated as natural fencing or hedges. Proving itself highly attractive to wildlife, this is a plant that can prove key for wildlife gardens or meadows. It provides seasonal interest with delicate white flowers in the spring and dark-colored sloe berries in the autumn.

Symbolism

Waning and Dark Moon

Interesting Facts

In the black arts, sticks of blackthorn were used as a “blasting rod” to throw a curse. Witches were often burnt with their blackthorn wands. Consequently, blackthorn was also used for purification and exorcism. According to folklore, planting a whitethorn (hawthorn) next to a blackthorn will result in the death of the blackthorn, demonstrating the triumph of good over evil.

Name Story

Blackthorn: Prunus indicates the tree is a member of the plum family, and spinosa means thorny. The common name blackthorn refers to its dark bark, which is sometimes used to make ink.

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Toxicity

Blackthorn poses a moderate toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs primarily through ingestion. All parts of the plant are toxic except the ripe flesh, releasing hydrogen cyanide, which can cause symptoms like difficulty breathing, dizziness, and seizures. Immediate medical or veterinary attention is crucial if poisoning occurs.

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Care Guide for Blackthorn

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blackthorn prefers temperate environments with moderate moisture and can tolerate dry spells. It thrives with biweekly watering, favoring moist but well-drained soil. Typically grown outdoors, blackthorn requires a climate with sufficient rainfall during the growing season to maintain optimal hydration.

Fertilize: Blackthorn thrives on balanced nutrition from fertilization. Apply a complete fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks in spring, stopping before autumn. Water thoroughly after application, increase as blackthorn matures, and watch for signs of excess, such as leaf burn.

Pruning: Blackthorn features thorny branches and a bushy growth habit. Annual pruning in early spring promotes growth and flowering by removing dead wood and thinning congested branches for air circulation. Sharpened, sanitized tools ensure precise cuts, rejuvenating older plants and maintaining shape and fruit production.

Propagation: Blackthorn is a hardy deciduous shrub from the Rosaceae family, valued for its thorny habitat and spring blossoms. Propagate by stratifying clean seeds before sowing in well-drained loamy soil while ensuring consistent moisture and preventing fungal diseases for successful seedlings.

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Images of Blackthorn

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Blackthorn

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