Prunus spinosa
TAXONOMY
FamilyRosaceae
GenusPrunus
Zone4
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Prunus spinosa, commonly known as blackthorn or sloe, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. It is known for its dark, thorny branches and small, white flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant produces small, dark purple fruits called sloes, which are often used to make sloe gin. Blackthorn is hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions, making it a common hedgerow plant.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Blackthorn
Sloe
Druparia spinosa
Prunus acacia
Prunus acacia-germanica
Prunus domestica var. spinosa
Prunus ericiflora
Prunus glomerata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
GDD5,475
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Prunus spinosa thrives in full sun and requires moderate temperatures. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Regular watering is necessary during the initial growth stage, but the plant is relatively drought-tolerant. It benefits from moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme cold.Harvest
Prunus spinosa, commonly known as blackthorn or sloe, is typically harvested in the autumn, usually after the first frost, which helps to soften the fruit and reduce its astringency. The berries should be picked by hand, taking care to avoid the sharp thorns on the branches. It is advisable to wear gloves to protect your hands. The fruit can be used for making sloe gin, jams, and jellies. Ensure that the berries are fully ripe and have a deep blue-black color before harvesting.Soil
Blackthorn prefers well-drained loamy soil but can adapt to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied in early spring to support growth. Fertilize once a year to maintain soil fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for blackthorn, as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Repot in early spring before new growth begins.Propagation
Blackthorn can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or suckers. Seeds should be stratified before planting. Cuttings can be taken in late summer and rooted in a well-draining medium. Suckers can be separated from the parent plant in early spring or fall.Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the blackthorn. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
Prunus spinosa is not considered toxic to pets or humans. However, the seeds inside the fruit contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. It is advisable to avoid consuming the seeds.Additional
Blackthorn is often used in hedgerows and wildlife gardens due to its dense, thorny growth, which provides excellent shelter for birds and other wildlife. The flowers are an important early source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
