Prunus spinosa aka Blackthorn

Taxonomy

Prunus spinosa, commonly known as blackthorn or sloe, is a deciduous, spiny dense shrub or small tree that belongs to the rose family Rosaceae. Native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa, it is also locally naturalized in New Zealand, Tasmania, and certain regions of the United States. Growing up to 5 meters tall, it has dark stems and ovate green leaves. In spring, it becomes adorned with small, double white flowers. The bark of blackthorn is blackish, and its branches are dense, stiff, and spiny. The fruit, known as a "sloe," is a drupe that measures 10-12 millimeters in diameter and has a black color with a purple-blue waxy bloom. Sloes ripen in autumn and are traditionally harvested in October or November, after the first frosts. They have a strongly astringent flavor when fresh. This species is often used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in Spain. Additionally, the wood of Prunus spinosa is utilized for making walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. The name "blackthorn" is derived from the shrub's thorny nature and its dark bark, distinguishing it from the white-thorn (hawthorn) species.

Common names

Blackthorn, Sloe, Sloe Berry

How to care for Blackthorn

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Blackthorn due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Blackthorn should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Blackthorn requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Sloe Berry, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Blackthorn will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

Blackthorn thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sloe Berry.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Blackthorn is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Blackthorn’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to the Mediterranean, Siberia and Iran.


More info:
Wikipedia