Prunus spinosa is commonly known as 'Blackthorn' and is an extremely popular UK native hedge that displays large clusters of vibrant white flowers in Spring before showing off wonderful bright green foliage in Spring/Summer. Blackthorn has edible sloe berries that are used in the making of sloe gin. If the berries are left alone you will have an aray of wild birds showing interest in clearing out your berries as they provide wild birds with a protective area for nesting as well as feeding. This can also act as a great deterrent for intruders as the thorns that protrude from this spiny hedge will not let anyone through unharmed. Prunus spinosa will do fine in any type of soil. Blackthorn grows at around 1-2 feet per year but can be pruned to a manageable size of 1m high if required.
