Prunus spinosa

Plant Details

Back

General Information

Scientific name: Prunus spinosa

Also known as: Blackthorn

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Fruit tree, Shrub

Format: Smal

Height: 3.00 m

Width: 3.00 m

Growth Rate: Moderate

Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Soil Moisture:
Moist

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Fruit, Flowers, Seed

Edibility:
(3)

Medicinal:
(2)

Features:
Cosmetic, Dye, Hedge, Pioneer, Wood, Bee plant, Carbon farming

Description

The fruits of this plant can be eaten either raw or cooked. Normally, they are cooked due to their very sour taste, but once the fruits have been frozen, they lose some of their astringent properties, making it possible for some people to enjoy them raw. These fruits are often used to make jelly, syrups, and other preserves, and are also used as a flavoring for, for example, sloe gin and various liqueurs. In France, unripe fruits are pickled like olives. The fruits are about 15 mm in diameter and contain a large seed, which can be eaten both raw and cooked. However, the seed should not be eaten if it is too bitter, due to possible toxicity. The leaves of this plant are used as a coffee substitute, and the dried fruits can be used to make herbal tea. The edible flowers can be crystallized or sweetened and added to dishes.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 15/08

End of Harvest: 31/10

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Crataegus tanacetifolia Tansy-Leaved Thorn	Provides nitrogen fixation to enhance soil fertility.
Rubus fruticosus Blackberry	Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, improving fruit set.
Viburnum opulus Highbush cranberry	Offers shade and support for climbing plants, creating a diverse habitat.
Althaea officinalis Marsh Mallow	Helps attract pollinators and suppress weeds with its growth habit.
Rubus x loganobaccus Loganberry	Repels pests and attracts pollinators with its aromatic foliage.
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme	Attracts beneficial insects and improves soil health.
Vitis vinifera Grape	Provides a support structure for climbing, while benefiting from the shade.
Pyrus communis Pear	Competes with pests and diseases by creating biodiversity.