Botanical name: Prunus spinosa
Common names: Blackthorn, sloe
Characteristics
- Tree/Hedge, that grows best in moist well drained soil. It has spiny and densely
branches. Mature trees can grow up to 6-7m. Live up to 100 years. - Leaves: oval leaves, toothed, pointed at the tip.
- Flowers: white flowers appear on short stalks before leaves in February/March. Both male and female reproductive parts in each flower.
- Fruits: once Blue-black berries (1cm across) frequently used to make sloe gin
- Great for wildlife. Good source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects. Used
by birds for nesting and berries are a good source of food in the autumn. - Its wood used to make walking sticks.
Dying Properties
• Colour: Purple
• Parts used/Foraging Season: Berries in autumn
Location
Museum end Poet’s path
