Blackthorn (Prunus Spinosa) is a perennial shrub in the Rosaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Prunus spinosa, commonly known as Blackthorn or Sloe, is a dense, spiny, deciduous shrub native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa.

Blackthorn

Blackthorn

Prunus Spinosa

Prunus spinosa, commonly known as Blackthorn or Sloe, is a dense, spiny, deciduous shrub native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
4-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:clay, sandy, loamy, chalky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, windbreak, wildlife habitat, barrier

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Blackthorn

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Blackthorn
Blackthorn detail

View leaf details, flowers, seeds & more in the app

Taxonomy

Family:Rosaceae
Genus:Prunus