Prunus spinosa - "Blackthorn" or "Sloe"
Height in 3 litre pot approx. 20/40cm.
This large dense deciduous shrub or small bushy tree has dark spiny branches which are crowded with small white flowers in March or early April. Bloomy blue-black fruits follow and they are used in preserves, wine making and for flavouring gin. After 10 years in reasonable growing conditions it will reach about 3m (10ft) but it can be pruned. A familiar native of hedges, the branches provide the traditional blackthorn sticks and Irish shillelaghs.
Planting:
If you are planting straight away soak the roots in a bucket of water for half an hour beforehand. If you are unable to plant it immediately stand it upright somewhere sheltered until you are ready, making sure the root ball is kept moist. Make the hole for planting plenty big enough to accommodate all the roots easily. Incorporate compost and general fertilizer or bone meal into the soil before backfilling. Firm in and water well to settle the soil around the roots. We do not recommend digging a hole before the tree arrives - it should be done at the time of planting. During the first growing season, keep well watered in any dry spells.
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