GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Blackthorn

Prunus spinosa · Shrub

Hardiness
H7 Very hardy (to below −20°C)
Position
Full sun
Height × Spread
2.5–6 m × 2.5–4 m
Soil
moist well-drained soil; Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand; Acid, Alkaline, Neutral pH
Flowering
March–April
Toxicity
All parts other than the flesh of the fruits are harmful to pets and humans if eaten; seed contains trace amounts of hydrogen cyanide

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Silver leaf: Prune only in mid-summer to allow wounds to heal before fungal spores are active.

Blossom wilt: Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage when watering to reduce fungal pressure.

Aphids: Encourage natural predators like ladybirds or use a strong jet of water to dislodge them.

Bullfinch damage: Erect netting or bird deterrents around the shrub during the budding stage.

Caterpillar defoliation: Monitor for webbing or frass and remove affected branches if infestation is severe.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/blackthorn © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia