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Blackthorn

Blackthorn berries, also known as 'sloes'Irish Name - Draighean
Ulster-Scots - Slaebush
Family - Rosaceae

Characteristics

  • Blackthorn is a dense spiny shrub rarely exceeding 4m (12ft).
  • As a plant it is very hardy, but the flowers can be damaged by late frosts.
  • Blackthorn's latin name means "spiny plum".
  • It regenerates very quickly after cutting or burning.
  • Blackthorn produces suckers from below ground level and is a very good barrier and hedging plant.

Season

Silhouette of blackthorn
  • Flowers open between March and April.
  • The blue/black pulpy fruit ripens during October.

Preferred Environment

  • Blackthorn is found in open areas and along the edges of woodland, in scrub, and hedgerows.
  • It occurs on a wide range of soils, avoiding only extremely acid conditions, particularly where the soil is peaty.
  • It is not tolerant of heavy shade, but withstands exposure to winds and coastal conditions.

Wildlife Associations

  • There are 109 identified insect species associated with the blackthorn.
  • Blackthorn often grows unchecked in woodland where trees have been felled. Spiny branches create virtually impenetrable thickets that provide excellent bird nesting cover.
  • Birds eat the blackthorn fruit, and help to spread the plant by dropping or excreting the seed in new locations.

Uses

  • The popular Irish shillelagh is made from blackthorn.
  • Blackthorn stems trimmed and polished to a handsome black surface are used for walking sticks.
 
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