Important note: Please note that some of our taller saplings are carefully trimmed before dispatch so they fit safely inside their boxes without being bent or damaged in transit. This won’t harm the plant, but it could encourage thicker and bushier growth. If you prefer your sapling to grow straight and upright, choose a strong central shoot as it begins to flourish and cut back any competing shoots to encourage it to become the main stem.
About blackthorn
(Prunus spinosa)
A spiny, densley branched tree that produces white flowers in early spring and purple-black fruits (sloes) in late summer.
Growth and size
Mature height: 4m.
Growth rate: 40-60cm per year.
Supplied as 20-50cm cell-grown saplings.
Can be planted all year round with proper care.
Value to wildlife
Early source of nectar and pollen for bees and other insects.
Food plant of lackey, magpie, swallow-tailed and yellow-tailed moths, as well as black and brown hairstreak butterflies.
Birds often nest among the dense, thorny thickets.
Soil and conditions
Grows in moist, well-drained soil.
Prefers full sunlight.
Grown responsibly
UK sourced and grown (UKISG certified).
Reduces risk of spreading pests and diseases.
Delivered in 100% recyclable LDPE wrap.
Did you know?
The tree is associated with witchcraft; it's said that witches make their wands and staffs from blackthorn wood.
