Prunus Spinosa - Blackthorn

Prunus spinosa, commonly known as Blackthorn or Sloe, is a tough native deciduous shrub widely recognised in the British countryside. Best known for its dark purplish-black sloes that ripen in late autumn, Blackthorn is an essential component of traditional hedgerows and wildlife planting schemes.

A densely spiny, suckering shrub, Blackthorn forms one of the most effective stock-proof and people-proof hedges. Its snowy white blossom appears in very early spring — often in March — before the leaves emerge, creating a striking display across the landscape. The flowers are followed by small, plum-like fruits with green, bitter flesh surrounding the seed.

Exceptionally hardy and tolerant, Blackthorn thrives in most soils and situations, including wet and exposed sites. Its vigorous suckering habit ensures dense growth at the base of hedges, preventing gaps and providing excellent cover.

This is the size and type we sell:

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn 20–60cm Cell Grown

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn 40–60cm 1+0

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn 40–60cm 1+1

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn 60–80cm 1+0

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn 60–80cm 1u1

Professionally grown and suitable for hedging, woodland planting, and conservation schemes.

Features & Benefits

Native British deciduous shrub with strong countryside character

Masses of early spring white blossom before leaf emergence

Produces sloes (purplish-black fruits) in late autumn

Dense, thorny, suckering growth — ideal for stock-proof hedges

Extremely tough; tolerates wet and exposed conditions

Excellent wildlife value for insects, birds, and moth species

Traditional uses including sloe gin and walking sticks

Applications

Stock-proof and security hedging

Mixed native wildlife hedgerows

Woodland edge and conservation planting

Game bird cover

Countryside restoration projects

Planting Guidance

More commonly planted as part of a mixed native hedge, often alongside hawthorn.

New hedgerows should be planted in two staggered rows 30cm apart.

We recommend a minimum of 5 plants per metre.

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 5m height x 1.5m spread

After 20 years: 5m height x 1.5m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Prunus spinosa

Common Name | Blackthorn / Sloe

Plant Type | Deciduous shrub

Growth Rate | Moderate

Mature Height | Approx. 5m

Mature Spread | Approx. 1.5m

Soil Type | Tolerates most soils including wet sites

Aspect | Full sun to partial shade

Hardiness | Very hardy; tolerant of exposed conditions

Plant Size & Type | 20–60cm Cell Grown; 40–60cm 1+0; 40–60cm 1+1; 60–80cm 1+0; 60–80cm 1u1

Planting Density | Minimum 5 plants per metre (double staggered row, 30cm apart)

Maintenance | Prune hedges in June–July

Wildlife Value | Early pollen source for insects; host plant for moths and butterflies including Emperor Moth; fruits eaten by birds over winter