Taxonomy
Prunus spinosa | Blackthorn | Draighean
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not protected
Native status
Native
Species Biology
Identification
Flowers: March – May; white flowers single or in twos
Fruits: Sloes resembling miniature black plums
Habitat
Open woodland, hedgerows, rocky slopes and scrub
Life cycle
Perennial
Ex-situ conservation
Not known
Use
Food crop
Vegetative nature
Woody
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
Widespread and common
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.
Further information
The shrub has been traditionally used in Northern Europe and Ireland for stock-proof hedging due to its thorns. The fruits are used in the making of sloe wine and gin. Stewed leaves were an old Irish remedy for fevers and indigestion in children. Wood is used for traditional walking sticks (shillelagh)